2002 Ford Ka vs. 1985 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2002 Ford Ka is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Volkswagen Jetta would be higher. At 1,779 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Ka (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (109 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Ka weights approximately 210 kg more than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. 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, 2002 Ford Ka (175 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta. (156 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Ka | 1985 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1779 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 109 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 156 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 926 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2480 mm |
