1997 Ford Ka vs. 2009 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander 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. At 3,311 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (209 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 804 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 Toyota Highlander 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, 2009 Toyota Highlander 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, 2009 Toyota Highlander (287 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 182 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Ka | 2009 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Ka | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 3311 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 209 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 287 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1684 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 65 L |
