1983 Honda Ballade vs. 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1983 Honda Ballade is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Honda Ballade (67 HP) has 18 more horse power than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Honda Ballade should accelerate faster than 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 85 kg more than 1983 Honda Ballade.
Because 1959 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 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1983 Honda Ballade, 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 Honda Ballade | 1959 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ballade | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1959 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1335 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 49 HP |
| Torque | 108 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 72 mm | 85.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 785 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4150 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2330 mm | 2430 mm |
