1997 Ford Ka vs. 2004 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Ka would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1093 kg more than 1997 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Ford Ka. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Ford Explorer (325 Nm) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Ka | 2004 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ka | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 4015 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 325 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1973 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 3200 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 85 L |
