1978 AMC Pacer vs. 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1978 AMC Pacer is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 3,802 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 AMC Pacer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 AMC Pacer (90 HP @ 3050 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 AMC Pacer should accelerate faster than 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 AMC Pacer weights approximately 499 kg more than 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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. 1978 AMC Pacer has automatic transmission and 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 AMC Pacer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 AMC Pacer | 1965 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | AMC | Volkswagen |
| Model | Pacer | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3050 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1359 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 40 L |
