1996 Fiat 126 vs. 1997 Ford Ka
To start off, 1997 Ford Ka is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Fiat 126. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Fiat 126 would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Ka (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1996 Fiat 126. (25 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1996 Fiat 126. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Ka weights approximately 235 kg more than 1996 Fiat 126. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Fiat 126 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 Fiat 126. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Ford Ka (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Fiat 126. (49 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Fiat 126.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Fiat 126 | 1997 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Fiat | Ford |
| Model | 126 | Ka |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Rear | Front |
| Engine Size | 704 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 25 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 49 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 70 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 | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 645 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3110 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1380 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 40 L |
