2003 Ford Ka vs. 1974 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,422 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volkswagen Golf (70 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Ka weights approximately 132 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Golf.
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. 1974 Volkswagen Golf has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1974 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1422 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 70 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 156 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.1 seconds | 14 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 45 L |
