1984 Vauxhall Astra vs. 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1984 Vauxhall Astra is newer by 18 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, 1984 Vauxhall Astra (59 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (38 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1984 Vauxhall Astra should accelerate faster than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Vauxhall Astra weights approximately 20 kg more than 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1984 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, both vehicles can yield 89 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:
| 1984 Vauxhall Astra | 1966 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Vauxhall | Volkswagen |
| Model | Astra | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1984 | 1966 |
| 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 | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 89 Nm | 89 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 61 mm | 69 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 820 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 |
