1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia vs. 2011 Fiat Panda
To start off, 2011 Fiat Panda is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Fiat Panda (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Fiat Panda should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Fiat Panda weights approximately 285 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Fiat Panda, 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, 2011 Fiat Panda (102 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Fiat Panda will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2011 Fiat Panda has automatic transmission and 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Fiat Panda will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | 2011 Fiat Panda | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Fiat |
| Model | Karmann-Ghia | Panda |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 1285 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 43 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4100 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 3540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2310 mm |
