1997 Ford Ka vs. 2009 Volkswagen GTI
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen GTI is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Ka would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen GTI is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen GTI should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen GTI weights approximately 490 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, 2009 Volkswagen GTI (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen GTI will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Ka | 2009 Volkswagen GTI | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | GTI |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| 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 | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
