2003 Ford Ka vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 30 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, 1973 Volkswagen Passat (74 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1973 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Ka weights approximately 82 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
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, 1973 Volkswagen Passat (115 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1973 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1471 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2480 mm |
