1951 Austin A vs. 2008 Ford Ka
To start off, 2008 Ford Ka is newer by 57 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1951 Austin A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1951 Austin A would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Ka (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1951 Austin A. (29 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1951 Austin A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Ka weights approximately 277 kg more than 1951 Austin A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1951 Austin A 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 1951 Austin A. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Ford Ka (100 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1951 Austin A. (54 Nm @ 2200 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1951 Austin A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1951 Austin A | 2008 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | A | Ka |
| Year Released | 1951 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 803 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 29 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 54 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2200 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 95 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 685 kg | 962 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1410 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2030 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 40 L |
