1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,469 cc (4 cylinders), 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit (47 HP) has 8 more horse power than 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (39 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit should accelerate faster than 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit weights approximately 40 kg more than 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 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 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit, 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, 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (92 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit.
Compare all specifications:
| 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 1977 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | Rabbit |
| Year Released | 1965 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 1469 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | boxer | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 47 HP |
| Torque | 92 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 7.3:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 3950 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
