2000 Ford Ka vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Ford Ka would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (100 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2000 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 2000 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle weights approximately 412 kg more than 2000 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, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle (155 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ford Ka | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1292 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
