1978 Volkswagen Polo vs. 2012 Ford Ka
To start off, 2012 Ford Ka is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Ka (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (49 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Ka weights approximately 281 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 Ford Ka (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Polo. (77 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 Volkswagen Polo | 2012 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | Polo | Ka |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1093 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 49 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 77 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 685 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3510 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 40 L |
