2009 Ford Ka vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Ford Ka is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2009 Ford Ka. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 260 kg more than 2009 Ford Ka. 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, 1997 Volkswagen Golf (315 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 209 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Ka | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | Golf |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 146 km/hour | 205 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.7 seconds | 9.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1226 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2480 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
