1996 Ford Ka vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Ka would be higher. At 1,422 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 352 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (126 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |
