1975 Simca 1309 vs. 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1975 Simca 1309 is newer by 13 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 1,442 cc (4 cylinders), 1975 Simca 1309 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1975 Simca 1309 (83 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1975 Simca 1309 should accelerate faster than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1975 Simca 1309 weights approximately 216 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, 1975 Simca 1309, 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, 1975 Simca 1309 (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1975 Simca 1309 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1975 Simca 1309 | 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Simca | Volkswagen |
| Model | 1309 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1975 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1442 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 122 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 7.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1056 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4260 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 58 L | 40 L |
