1971 Lotus Elan vs. 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1971 Lotus Elan is newer by 6 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), 1971 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Lotus Elan (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 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 120 kg more than 1971 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:
1971 Lotus Elan | 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
Model | Elan | Karmann-Ghia |
Year Released | 1971 | 1965 |
Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1558 cc | 1192 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 34 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 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 | 700 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3690 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1340 mm |