1968 Lotus Elan vs. 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1968 Lotus Elan is newer by 3 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 1,558 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1968 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (39 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1968 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 128 kg more than 1968 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:
| 1968 Lotus Elan | 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1965 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 702 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1340 mm |
