1996 BMW 523 vs. 2012 Ford Ka
To start off, 2012 Ford Ka is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 BMW 523. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 BMW 523 would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 BMW 523 (170 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 2012 Ford Ka. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Ka.
Because 1996 BMW 523 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 1996 BMW 523. 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, 1996 BMW 523 (245 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
1996 BMW 523 | 2012 Ford Ka | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 523 | Ka |
Year Released | 1996 | 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 | 170 HP | 68 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 245 Nm | 106 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 74.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 75.5 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |