1997 Ford Ka vs. 1986 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 1997 Ford Ka is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Volkswagen Golf (137 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 78 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 27 kg more than 1997 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, 1986 Volkswagen Golf (169 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1986 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Ka | 1986 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | Golf |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 137 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 169 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 907 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
