1972 Citroen DS vs. 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1972 Citroen DS is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Citroen DS (98 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1972 Citroen DS should accelerate faster than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Citroen DS weights approximately 370 kg more than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1962 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 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1972 Citroen DS, 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 Citroen DS (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1972 Citroen DS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1972 Citroen DS | 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | DS | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1972 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1984 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 98 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 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 |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2430 mm |
