1970 Lotus Seven vs. 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1970 Lotus Seven is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,557 cc (4 cylinders), 1970 Lotus Seven is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Lotus Seven (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1970 Lotus Seven should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 290 kg more than 1970 Lotus Seven.
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:
| 1970 Lotus Seven | 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Seven | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1970 | 1959 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1557 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 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 | 570 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1560 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 950 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2240 mm | 2430 mm |
