2008 Ford Ka vs. 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2008 Ford Ka is newer by 47 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Ka (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Ka weights approximately 142 kg more than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 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 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Ford Ka (100 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Ka | 1961 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1961 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 77.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 64 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 820 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 40 L |
