2004 Ford Ka vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Ka would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (120 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2004 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 271 kg more than 2004 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Ka | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | Golf |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1019 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.6 L/100km | 6.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
