1964 Austin-Healey Sprite vs. 1997 Ford Ka
To start off, 1997 Ford Ka is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 59 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Ka weights approximately 166 kg more than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Because 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite 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 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Ford Ka (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite. (84 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite.
Compare all specifications:
| 1964 Austin-Healey Sprite | 1997 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Austin-Healey | Ford |
| Model | Sprite | Ka |
| Year Released | 1964 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1098 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 84 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 64.6 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.7 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 714 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3470 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1350 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 40 L |
