1997 Ford Ka vs. 1973 Renault 12
To start off, 1997 Ford Ka is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Ka (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1973 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1973 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Renault 12 weights approximately 20 kg more than 1997 Ford Ka.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Ford Ka (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Ka | 1973 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Ka | 12 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1288 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 900 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 56 L |
