1997 Ford Ka vs. 2012 Chevrolet Impala
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Impala 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Impala (300 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 241 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Impala should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Impala weights approximately 733 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.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Impala (355 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka. 2012 Chevrolet Impala has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Ka | 2012 Chevrolet Impala | |
Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
Model | Ka | Impala |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 3600 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 300 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 105 Nm | 355 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1613 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 5090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1852 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1491 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2807 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 64 L |