1996 Ford Ka vs. 2008 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Polo 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 1,422 cc (3 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 301 kg more than 1996 Ford Ka.
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 Polo (195 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Polo 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 Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | Polo |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1209 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 45 L |
