1996 Lotus Elan vs. 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia

To start off, 1996 Lotus Elan is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,588 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Lotus Elan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Lotus Elan (163 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Lotus Elan should accelerate faster than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Lotus Elan weights approximately 180 kg more than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1962 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 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Lotus Elan (204 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Lotus Elan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Lotus Elan 1962 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
Make Lotus Volkswagen
Model Elan Karmann-Ghia
Year Released 1996 1962
Body Type Convertible Convertible
Engine Position Front Rear
Engine Size 1588 cc 1285 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 163 HP 43 HP
Engine RPM 6600 RPM 4100 RPM
Torque 204 Nm 86 Nm
Torque RPM 4200 RPM 3000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
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 840 kg
Vehicle Length 3810 mm 4200 mm
Vehicle Width 1740 mm 1640 mm
Vehicle Height 1240 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2260 mm 2430 mm


 

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