1988 BMW 535 vs. 2011 Ford Ka
To start off, 2011 Ford Ka is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW 535. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW 535 would be higher. At 3,430 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 BMW 535 (215 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 2011 Ford Ka. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 2011 Ford Ka.
Because 1988 BMW 535 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 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 535 (310 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1988 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 BMW 535 | 2011 Ford Ka | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 535 | Ka |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3430 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 215 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92 mm | 74.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 40 L |
