1988 Volkswagen Jetta vs. 2011 Ford Ka
To start off, 2011 Ford Ka is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,272 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Ka (68 HP) has 15 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (53 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Ka weights approximately 65 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 2011 Ford Ka (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta. (96 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Volkswagen Jetta | 2011 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Volkswagen | Ford |
| Model | Jetta | Ka |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1272 cc | 1242 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 53 HP | 68 HP |
| Torque | 96 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 70.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 78.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.1:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 875 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2480 mm | 2310 mm |
