1989 Lotus Elan vs. 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 1989 Lotus Elan is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1989 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1989 Lotus Elan (165 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (39 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1989 Lotus Elan weights approximately 200 kg more than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 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 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1989 Lotus Elan, 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, 1989 Lotus Elan (201 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (88 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1989 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Lotus Elan | 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Lotus | Volkswagen |
| Model | Elan | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1956 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1588 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 165 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79 mm | 64 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.2:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3810 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 42 L |
