2003 Ford Ka vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (114 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (73 HP @ 6150 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 305 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (170 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka. 1997 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. 1997 Volkswagen Golf will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 187 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.1 seconds | 11.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2470 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 55 L |
