1996 Ford Ka vs. 1986 Renault Alpine
To start off, 1996 Ford Ka is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Renault Alpine. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Renault Alpine would be higher. At 2,458 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Renault Alpine is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Renault Alpine (200 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Renault Alpine should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Renault Alpine weights approximately 274 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 1986 Renault Alpine 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 1986 Renault Alpine. 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, 1986 Renault Alpine (285 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1986 Renault Alpine will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 1986 Renault Alpine | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Ka | Alpine |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.6:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1182 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4340 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 72 L |
