1996 Ford Ka vs. 2008 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 12 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 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (74 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 388 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, 2008 Volkswagen Golf (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Ka | 2008 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Ka | Golf |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1390 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 | 3300 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 164 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1296 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2590 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |