1996 Ford Ka vs. 1973 Volkswagen 1600
To start off, 1996 Ford Ka is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen 1600 would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen 1600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Ka (58 HP) has 5 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. (53 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volkswagen 1600 weights approximately 127 kg more than 1996 Ford Ka.
Because 1973 Volkswagen 1600 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 1600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Ford Ka, 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, 1973 Volkswagen 1600 (110 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1973 Volkswagen 1600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 1973 Volkswagen 1600 | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | 1600 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 53 HP |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 40 L |
