1984 Austin Ambassador vs. 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1984 Austin Ambassador is newer by 21 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 1,697 cc (4 cylinders), 1984 Austin Ambassador is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Austin Ambassador (83 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Austin Ambassador should accelerate faster than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Austin Ambassador weights approximately 359 kg more than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1984 Austin Ambassador, 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, 1984 Austin Ambassador (131 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1984 Austin Ambassador will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Austin Ambassador | 1963 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Austin | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ambassador | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1963 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1697 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 131 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 846 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4560 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2430 mm |
