1996 Ford Ka vs. 2006 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2006 Smart Roadster 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 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Smart Roadster (81 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Ka weights approximately 23 kg more than 2006 Smart Roadster.
Because 2006 Smart Roadster 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 Smart Roadster. 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 Smart Roadster (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka. 2006 Smart Roadster 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. 2006 Smart Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 2006 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Ford | Smart |
| Model | Ka | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 35 L |
