2006 Ford Ka vs. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit
To start off, 2006 Ford Ka is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit would be higher. At 1,715 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (72 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Ka weights approximately 295 kg more than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 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, 2006 Ford Ka (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. (122 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit has automatic transmission and 2006 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 2006 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Ford Ka | 1981 Volkswagen Rabbit | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Ka | Rabbit |
Year Released | 2006 | 1981 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1715 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 94 HP | 72 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 122 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 86.4 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 845 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3950 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1620 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2410 mm |