1961 Austin A vs. 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin A would be higher. At 1,489 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Austin A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 38 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Austin A weights approximately 325 kg more than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (89 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin A. (87 Nm @ 1900 RPM). This means 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin A | 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | A | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1489 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 38 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 87 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88.9 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1530 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 40 L |
