1996 Ford Ka vs. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 10 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 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 446 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, 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle (240 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 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 | 2006 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 177 km/hour |
| 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 | 1354 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 |
