1996 Ford Ka vs. 1985 Renault 18
To start off, 1996 Ford Ka is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Renault 18 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Renault 18 (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Renault 18 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Renault 18 weights approximately 227 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 Renault 18 (163 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1985 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 1985 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Ka | 18 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 163 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1135 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1410 mm |
