1996 Ford Ka vs. 1978 Mazda 818
To start off, 1996 Ford Ka is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mazda 818 (68 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mazda 818 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Ka weights approximately 28 kg more than 1978 Mazda 818.
Because 1978 Mazda 818 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 1978 Mazda 818. 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, 1996 Ford Ka (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 1978 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ka | 818 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1272 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2320 mm |
