1996 Audi A3 vs. 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia

To start off, 1996 Audi A3 is newer by 40 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 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Audi A3 (100 HP) has 61 more horse power than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (39 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Audi A3 weights approximately 314 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, 1996 Audi A3, 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, 1996 Audi A3 (136 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (88 Nm). This means 1996 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Audi A3 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
Make Audi Volkswagen
Model A3 Karmann-Ghia
Year Released 1996 1956
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 1595 cc 1192 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line boxer
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 100 HP 39 HP
Torque 136 Nm 88 Nm
Engine Bore Size 81 mm 77 mm
Engine Stroke Size 77.5 mm 64 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.3:1 7.0:1
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1134 kg 820 kg
Vehicle Length 4160 mm 4150 mm
Vehicle Width 1760 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1430 mm 1510 mm
Wheelbase Size 2520 mm 2410 mm