1983 Vauxhall Astra vs. 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1983 Vauxhall Astra 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 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1983 Vauxhall Astra (59 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1983 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
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 Vauxhall Astra, 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, 1983 Vauxhall Astra (88 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Vauxhall Astra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 Vauxhall Astra | 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1983 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1196 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 88 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2430 mm |
