1988 BMW 316 vs. 1999 Ford Ka
To start off, 1999 Ford Ka is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 316 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 BMW 316 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 316 (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1999 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 316 should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 BMW 316 weights approximately 960 kg more than 1999 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 BMW 316 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 1988 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1988 BMW 316 (127 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 22 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 316 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 316 | 1999 Ford Ka | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 316 | Ka |
| Year Released | 1988 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 127 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1840 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2460 mm |
