1980 Saab 900 vs. 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1980 Saab 900 is newer by 18 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 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1980 Saab 900 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Saab 900 (108 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 Saab 900 should accelerate faster than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Saab 900 weights approximately 340 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, 1980 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, 1980 Saab 900 (164 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1980 Saab 900 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 Saab 900 | 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Saab | Volkswagen |
| Model | 900 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1980 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 164 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 7.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4750 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2530 mm | 2430 mm |
