1996 Ford Ka vs. 1971 Volvo 140
To start off, 1996 Ford Ka is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Volvo 140. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Volvo 140 would be higher. At 1,985 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Volvo 140 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 Volvo 140 (81 HP @ 4700 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1971 Volvo 140 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Volvo 140 weights approximately 352 kg more than 1996 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Volvo 140 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 1971 Volvo 140. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1971 Volvo 140 (157 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1971 Volvo 140 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 1971 Volvo 140 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Ka | 140 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 157 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4650 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2610 mm |
