2005 Ford Ka vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2005 Ford Ka is newer by 8 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 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (100 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2005 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 74 kg more than 2005 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 (145 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Ka | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | Golf |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1595 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 86.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
