1985 Ford Escort vs. 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1985 Ford Escort is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,192 cc (4 cylinders), 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Escort (49 HP) has 10 more horse power than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 30 kg more than 1985 Ford Escort.
Because 1956 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 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Ford Escort, 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, 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (88 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Ford Escort. (84 Nm @ 2700 RPM). This means 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Escort | 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Escort | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1956 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 39 HP |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2700 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 64 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 7.0:1 |
| 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 | 790 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4040 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 42 L |
