1986 BMW M3 vs. 2003 Ford Ka

To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,302 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 BMW M3 (197 HP @ 6750 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1986 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 BMW M3 weights approximately 208 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1986 BMW M3 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 1986 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1986 BMW M3 (240 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.

Compare all specifications:

1986 BMW M3 2003 Ford Ka
Make BMW Ford
Model M3 Ka
Year Released 1986 2003
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2302 cc 1299 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 69 HP
Engine RPM 6750 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 240 Nm 106 Nm
Torque RPM 4750 RPM 3000 RPM
Engine Bore Size 93.4 mm 74 mm
Engine Stroke Size 84 mm 75.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.5:1 10.0:1
Top Speed 235 km/hour 167 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 6.7 seconds 14.1 seconds
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 3 doors
Vehicle Weight 1170 kg 962 kg
Vehicle Length 4350 mm 3630 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1650 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2570 mm 2450 mm