2003 Ford Ka vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (89 HP @ 3750 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 338 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, 1998 Volkswagen Golf (202 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 202 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 95.4 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2480 mm |
