1962 Lotus Elan vs. 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elan would be higher. At 1,496 cc (4 cylinders), 1962 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elan (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 274 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elan.
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.
Compare all specifications:
1962 Lotus Elan | 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Karmann-Ghia |
Year Released | 1962 | 1973 |
Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1496 cc | 1493 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 100 HP | 52 HP |
Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 590 kg | 864 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2430 mm |