1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 1961 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,192 cc (4 cylinders), 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (34 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (24 HP @ 3300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 60 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1961 Volkswagen Beetle, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (84 Nm) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle. (77 Nm). This means 1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1964 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 1961 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
Model | Karmann-Ghia | Beetle |
Year Released | 1964 | 1961 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1192 cc | 1131 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 34 HP | 24 HP |
Engine RPM | 3600 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Torque | 84 Nm | 77 Nm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 820 kg | 760 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 40 L |