1988 Renault 4 vs. 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1988 Renault 4 is newer by 15 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 1,285 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (43 HP @ 4100 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1988 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia should accelerate faster than 1988 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia weights approximately 145 kg more than 1988 Renault 4. 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, 1988 Renault 4, 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, 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Renault 4. (62 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Renault 4 | 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Renault | Volkswagen |
| Model | 4 | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 956 cc | 1285 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 34 HP | 43 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Torque | 62 Nm | 86 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 695 kg | 840 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3670 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1490 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1560 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2430 mm |
