1981 Volkswagen Santana vs. 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1981 Volkswagen Santana is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Santana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Volkswagen Santana (90 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Santana should accelerate faster than 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 70 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Santana.
Because 1970 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 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1981 Volkswagen Santana, 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. 1981 Volkswagen Santana has automatic transmission and 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volkswagen Santana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Volkswagen Santana | 1970 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
| Model | Santana | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 790 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2560 mm | 2430 mm |
