1986 Lotus Esprit vs. 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1986 Lotus Esprit is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 2,174 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Lotus Esprit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Lotus Esprit (215 HP) has 185 more horse power than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (30 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1986 Lotus Esprit should accelerate faster than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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 Lotus Esprit (405 Nm) has 328 more torque (in Nm) than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (77 Nm). This means 1986 Lotus Esprit will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1986 Lotus Esprit | 1955 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Esprit | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1986 | 1955 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Rear |
| Engine Size | 2174 cc | 1190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 30 HP |
| Torque | 405 Nm | 77 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1120 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2440 mm | 2430 mm |
