1996 Ford Escort vs. 2003 Ford Ka
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,391 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Escort is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Escort (74 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Escort should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Escort weights approximately 168 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Ford Escort (115 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Escort will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Escort | 2003 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Escort | Ka |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 69 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1130 kg | 962 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
