1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 1978 Datsun 280Z
To start off, 1978 Datsun 280Z is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 2,753 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Datsun 280Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Datsun 280Z (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Datsun 280Z should accelerate faster than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Datsun 280Z weights approximately 380 kg more than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1978 Datsun 280Z (221 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1978 Datsun 280Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 1978 Datsun 280Z has automatic transmission and 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Datsun 280Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 1978 Datsun 280Z | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Datsun |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | 280Z |
| Year Released | 1962 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1192 cc | 2753 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 221 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 64 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.0:1 | 8.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 1200 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4399 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1631 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2304 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
