1997 Ford Ka vs. 2012 BMW 118
To start off, 2012 BMW 118 is newer by 15 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 118 (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 118 weights approximately 615 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 2012 BMW 118 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 2012 BMW 118. 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, 2012 BMW 118 (190 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Ka | 2012 BMW 118 | |
Make | Ford | BMW |
Model | Ka | 118 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 143 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 105 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1495 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4360 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1748 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1411 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 51 L |