1978 Mini MK IV vs. 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1978 Mini MK IV is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (38 HP @ 3900 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1978 Mini MK IV. (34 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia should accelerate faster than 1978 Mini MK IV. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 210 kg more than 1978 Mini MK IV. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1966 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 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 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, 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (89 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mini MK IV. (61 Nm @ 2900 RPM). This means 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mini MK IV.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Mini MK IV | 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Mini | Volkswagen |
| Model | MK IV | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1978 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 61 Nm | 89 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 |
