1980 BMW M1 vs. 2008 Ford Ka
To start off, 2008 Ford Ka is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1980 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 2008 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1980 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 BMW M1 weights approximately 454 kg more than 2008 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1980 BMW M1 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 1980 BMW M1. 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, 1980 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 230 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Ka. (100 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1980 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1980 BMW M1 | 2008 Ford Ka | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M1 | Ka |
| Year Released | 1980 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Top Speed | 262 km/hour | 155 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1416 kg | 962 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1150 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2450 mm |
