1976 Mini MK IV vs. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1976 Mini MK IV is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,192 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 34 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 210 kg more than 1976 Mini MK IV.
Because 1961 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 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Mini MK IV, 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, 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Mini MK IV | 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Mini | Volkswagen |
| Model | MK IV | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1976 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2430 mm |
