1990 BMW 525 vs. 2012 Ford Ka
To start off, 2012 Ford Ka is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW 525 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 BMW 525 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 BMW 525 (185 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2012 Ford Ka. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1990 BMW 525 should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Ka.
Because 1990 BMW 525 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 1990 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 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, 1990 BMW 525 (240 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 134 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1990 BMW 525 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW 525 | 2012 Ford Ka | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 525 | Ka |
| Year Released | 1990 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 185 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 74.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.2 seconds | 13.7 seconds |
| 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 |
