1983 Citroen BX vs. 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1983 Citroen BX is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Citroen BX (72 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Citroen BX should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Citroen BX weights approximately 29 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Citroen BX, 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, both vehicles can yield 108 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Citroen BX | 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | BX | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1358 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 69 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 899 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2430 mm |
