1979 Saab 900 vs. 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1979 Saab 900 is newer by 13 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1979 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Saab 900 (143 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Saab 900 weights approximately 430 kg more than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 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, 1979 Saab 900, 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, 1979 Saab 900 (236 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (89 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1979 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 Saab 900 | 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 900 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1966 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 7.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2430 mm |
