1996 Ford Ka vs. 2001 Noble M12
To start off, 2001 Noble M12 is newer by 5 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 2,968 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Noble M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Noble M12 (335 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 277 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2001 Noble M12 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Noble M12 weights approximately 142 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 2001 Noble M12 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 2001 Noble M12. 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, 2001 Noble M12 (485 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2001 Noble M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 2001 Noble M12 | |
| Make | Ford | Noble |
| Model | Ka | M12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 485 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1150 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2440 mm |
