1986 Citroen BX vs. 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1986 Citroen BX is newer by 13 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 1,580 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Citroen BX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Citroen BX (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Citroen BX should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Citroen BX weights approximately 150 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1986 Citroen BX, 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, 1986 Citroen BX (135 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Citroen BX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Citroen BX | 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Citroen | Volkswagen |
| Model | BX | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1580 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2430 mm |
