2003 Volkswagen Passat vs. 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen Passat is newer by 30 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 2,495 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 732 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat, 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, 2003 Volkswagen Passat (326 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 240 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. 2003 Volkswagen Passat has automatic transmission and 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia has manual transmission. 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Volkswagen Passat will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Volkswagen Passat | 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
Make | Volkswagen | Volkswagen |
Model | Passat | Karmann-Ghia |
Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 2495 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 160 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 326 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1572 kg | 840 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2430 mm |