2009 Ford Ka vs. 1972 Volkswagen 1302
To start off, 2009 Ford Ka is newer by 37 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Volkswagen 1302. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Volkswagen 1302 would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1972 Volkswagen 1302. (34 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1972 Volkswagen 1302. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Ka weights approximately 380 kg more than 1972 Volkswagen 1302. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Volkswagen 1302 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 1972 Volkswagen 1302. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Ford Ka (136 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1972 Volkswagen 1302. (84 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1972 Volkswagen 1302.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Ka | 1972 Volkswagen 1302 | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | 1302 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1192 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 84 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 77 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 | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 756 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4070 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1560 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2410 mm |
