2003 Ford Ka vs. 1997 Volkswagen Passat
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 Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Passat (108 HP @ 4150 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Passat should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 469 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 Passat (235 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 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 | 1997 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4150 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 906 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |
