2009 Ford Ka vs. 1998 Volkswagen Polo
To start off, 2009 Ford Ka is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Polo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Polo would be higher. At 1,390 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Polo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Ka (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. (59 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Polo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Polo weights approximately 54 kg more than 2009 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, 1998 Volkswagen Polo (116 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Volkswagen Polo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Ka | 1998 Volkswagen Polo | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | Polo |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1390 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 116 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
