1996 Ford Ka vs. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 9 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 1,968 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (115 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 487 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, 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle (170 Nm) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |
