1983 Fiat Ritmo vs. 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1983 Fiat Ritmo is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Fiat Ritmo (53 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Fiat Ritmo should accelerate faster than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 6 kg more than 1983 Fiat Ritmo.
Because 1963 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 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Fiat Ritmo, 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 86 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 Ritmo | 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ritmo | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1116 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 86 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 846 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4020 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2430 mm |
