1986 Lada Samara vs. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1986 Lada Samara is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,493 cc (4 cylinders), 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lada Samara (64 HP @ 5550 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (52 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lada Samara should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Lada Samara weights approximately 60 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1986 Lada Samara, 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lada Samara | 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Lada | Volkswagen |
| Model | Samara | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1288 cc | 1493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 52 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5550 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| 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 | 920 kg | 860 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4010 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1630 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 42 L |
