1973 BMW 3 vs. 2002 Ford Ka
To start off, 2002 Ford Ka is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,153 cc (6 cylinders), 1973 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 3 (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 2002 Ford Ka. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 BMW 3 weights approximately 134 kg more than 2002 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1973 BMW 3 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 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 BMW 3 (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Ka. (175 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1973 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 2002 Ford Ka | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Ka |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.3 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Top Speed | 222 km/hour | 174 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1136 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 42 L |
