1996 Ford Ka vs. 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500
To start off, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 is newer by 13 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 5,408 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 (493 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 435 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 weights approximately 208 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 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 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 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500. 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, 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 (480 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 375 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 2009 Ford Shelby GT 500 | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ka | Shelby GT 500 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 5408 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 480 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1116 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 61 L |
