1996 Ford Ka vs. 1997 Renault Safrane
To start off, 1997 Renault Safrane 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Renault Safrane is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Renault Safrane (142 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Renault Safrane should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Renault Safrane weights approximately 617 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 Renault Safrane (200 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1997 Renault Safrane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka. 1997 Renault Safrane 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. 1997 Renault Safrane will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 1997 Renault Safrane | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Ka | Safrane |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1525 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 38 L |
