1985 Ford Laser vs. 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1985 Ford Laser is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,490 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Ford Laser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Ford Laser (85 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1985 Ford Laser should accelerate faster than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 28 kg more than 1985 Ford Laser.
Because 1962 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 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1985 Ford Laser, 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, 1985 Ford Laser (120 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Laser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1985 Ford Laser | 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Laser | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1985 | 1962 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1490 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 792 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2430 mm |
