1973 Citroen DS 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 Citroen DS. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Citroen DS would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Citroen DS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Ka (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1973 Citroen DS. (103 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1973 Citroen DS. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Citroen DS weights approximately 74 kg more than 2002 Ford Ka.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2002 Ford Ka (175 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Citroen DS. (152 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Citroen DS.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 Citroen DS | 2002 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | DS | Ka |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1985 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 103 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 152 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.5 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1210 kg | 1136 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3130 mm | 2450 mm |
