1969 Austin Mini Clubman vs. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1969 Austin Mini Clubman is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1969 Austin Mini Clubman. (39 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia should accelerate faster than 1969 Austin Mini Clubman. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 202 kg more than 1969 Austin Mini Clubman. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1969 Austin Mini Clubman, 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, 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (87 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1969 Austin Mini Clubman. (71 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1969 Austin Mini Clubman.
Compare all specifications:
| 1969 Austin Mini Clubman | 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Mini Clubman | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1969 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 998 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 39 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 87 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 638 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3170 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 40 L |
