1972 Austin Allegro vs. 1957 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1972 Austin Allegro is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,485 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Austin Allegro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Austin Allegro (68 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1957 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (30 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Austin Allegro should accelerate faster than 1957 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Austin Allegro weights approximately 50 kg more than 1957 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 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 1957 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Austin Allegro, 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, 1972 Austin Allegro (104 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (77 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1972 Austin Allegro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Austin Allegro | 1957 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Allegro | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1957 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1485 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 30 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 104 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3200 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1620 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2430 mm |
