2002 Ford Ka vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2002 Ford Ka is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,471 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Ka (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (49 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 35 kg more than 2002 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, 2002 Ford Ka (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (82 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Ka | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | Passat |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 82 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 76.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 23.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 915 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 45 L |
