1994 BMW 518 vs. 2004 Ford Ka
To start off, 2004 Ford Ka is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 BMW 518. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 BMW 518 would be higher. At 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 BMW 518 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 BMW 518 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2004 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 BMW 518 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 BMW 518 weights approximately 198 kg more than 2004 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 BMW 518 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 1994 BMW 518. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1994 BMW 518 (161 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Ka. (99 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1994 BMW 518 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 BMW 518 | 2004 Ford Ka | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 518 | Ka |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1794 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 161 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 962 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2450 mm |
