1986 Fiat Panda vs. 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1986 Fiat Panda is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (49 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1986 Fiat Panda. (36 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia should accelerate faster than 1986 Fiat Panda. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 60 kg more than 1986 Fiat Panda. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 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 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Fiat Panda, 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, 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (108 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1986 Fiat Panda. (71 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1986 Fiat Panda.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Fiat Panda | 1972 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Fiat | Volkswagen |
| Model | Panda | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1302 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 36 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 71 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76.1 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.5 mm | 69 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 810 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3420 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1500 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2170 mm | 2430 mm |
