2008 Ford Ka vs. 1996 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2008 Ford Ka is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Ka (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. (63 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 69 kg more than 2008 Ford Ka.
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, 1996 Volkswagen Polo (124 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Ka | 1996 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | Polo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1035 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
