1983 Fiat 127 vs. 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1983 Fiat 127 is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,192 cc (4 cylinders), 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Fiat 127 (49 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (30 HP @ 3400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Fiat 127 should accelerate faster than 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Fiat 127 weights approximately 8 kg more than 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 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 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Fiat 127, 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 77 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 Fiat 127 | 1958 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | 127 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1958 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1048 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 30 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 830 kg | 822 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1550 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2230 mm | 2430 mm |
