1970 Austin 1800 vs. 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1970 Austin 1800 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Austin 1800 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Austin 1800 (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 48 more horse power than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Austin 1800 should accelerate faster than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Austin 1800 weights approximately 370 kg more than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 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 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 Austin 1800, 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, 1970 Austin 1800 (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (89 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1970 Austin 1800 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1970 Austin 1800 | 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1800 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 7.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 49 L | 40 L |
