2007 Ford Ka vs. 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia
To start off, 2007 Ford Ka is newer by 34 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Ford Ka (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. (49 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Ford Ka weights approximately 92 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 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 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia (108 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Ford Ka. (99 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Ford Ka | 1973 Volkswagen Karmann-Ghia | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Ka | Karmann-Ghia |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 49 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 69 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 | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2430 mm |
