1983 Ford Fiesta vs. 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1983 Ford Fiesta is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Ford Fiesta (40 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Ford Fiesta should accelerate faster than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 105 kg more than 1983 Ford Fiesta.
Because 1966 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 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Ford Fiesta, 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, 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (89 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Ford Fiesta. (64 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Ford Fiesta | 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Fiesta | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1966 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 957 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 40 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 64 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 55.7 mm | 69 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 7.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 715 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2300 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 40 L |
