1968 Ford Escort vs. 2011 Ford Ka
To start off, 2011 Ford Ka is newer by 43 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,298 cc (4 cylinders), 1968 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Ka (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1968 Ford Escort. (56 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1968 Ford Escort.
Because 1968 Ford Escort 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 1968 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Ford Ka (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Ford Escort. (98 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Ford Escort | 2011 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Ka |
| Year Released | 1968 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1298 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 56 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 98 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 74.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 63 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3980 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1580 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 41 L | 40 L |
