1996 Ford Ka vs. 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 1996 Ford Ka is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 2,474 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 262 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.
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, 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass (180 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka. 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 1985 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Ford | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Ka | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2640 mm |
