1996 Ford Ka vs. 1982 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1996 Ford Ka is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1982 Volkswagen Passat (59 HP) has 1 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1982 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1982 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 32 kg more than 1996 Ford Ka. 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, 1996 Ford Ka (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Volkswagen Passat. (101 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 1982 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | Passat |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1982 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 940 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2560 mm |
