1996 Ford Ka vs. 2006 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2006 Nissan 350Z is newer by 10 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 3,491 cc, 2006 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan 350Z (300 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 242 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 802 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 2006 Nissan 350Z 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 2006 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2006 Nissan 350Z (353 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 248 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 2006 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Ka | 350Z |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 3491 cc |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 300 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 353 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4800 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 | 1710 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 76 L |
