1996 Ford Ka vs. 1997 Peugeot 406
To start off, 1997 Peugeot 406 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Ka would be higher. At 1,580 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Peugeot 406 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Peugeot 406 (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Peugeot 406 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Peugeot 406 weights approximately 332 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, 1997 Peugeot 406 (133 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Peugeot 406 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 1997 Peugeot 406 | |
| Make | Ford | Peugeot |
| Model | Ka | 406 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1580 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
