2005 Ford Ka vs. 1997 Volkswagen Polo
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 Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Ka weights approximately 116 kg more than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. 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, 2005 Ford Ka (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Volkswagen Polo. (117 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Volkswagen Polo.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Ka | 1997 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | Polo |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 117 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
