2003 Ford Ka vs. 1979 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Ka (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (59 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Ka weights approximately 82 kg more than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. 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 Ford Ka (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Volkswagen Passat. (95 Nm @ 3400 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1979 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1979 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 95 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1630 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2480 mm |
