1997 Ford Ka vs. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is newer by 16 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2013 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (168 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 565 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, 2013 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Volkswagen Jetta will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Ka | 2013 Volkswagen Jetta | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Ka | Jetta |
Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 105 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 82 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 92 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1445 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4628 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1778 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1453 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2651 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |