1997 Ford Ka vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 12 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. Both 1997 Ford Ka and 2009 Mazda RX-8 are equipped with a 1,299 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (229 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 545 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 2009 Mazda RX-8 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 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 Mazda RX-8 (159 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Ka | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ka | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 61 L |
