1965 Lotus Elan vs. 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1965 Lotus Elan is newer by 3 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 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1965 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1965 Lotus Elan (104 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1965 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 160 kg more than 1965 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:
| 1965 Lotus Elan | 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 3600 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 | 660 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3700 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2140 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 40 L |
