2004 Ford Ka vs. 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2004 Ford Ka is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (39 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Ka weights approximately 316 kg more than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Ka, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2004 Ford Ka (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (88 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Ka | 1956 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1956 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 39 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 88 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.2 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 64 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 7.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 42 L |
