1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 1980 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1980 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (52 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia should accelerate faster than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 40 kg more than 1980 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1980 Volkswagen Beetle, 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.
Compare all specifications:
1971 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 1980 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
Model | Karmann-Ghia | Beetle |
Year Released | 1971 | 1980 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 1493 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 52 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 860 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1560 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1630 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2410 mm |