1996 Ford Ka vs. 2007 Lexus IS
To start off, 2007 Lexus IS is newer by 11 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 2,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lexus IS (205 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lexus IS weights approximately 658 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 2007 Lexus IS 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 2007 Lexus IS. 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, 2007 Lexus IS (252 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 147 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka. 2007 Lexus IS 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. 2007 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 2007 Lexus IS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Ka | IS |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2491 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1566 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2740 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 65 L |
