1997 Ford Ka vs. 2012 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2012 Smart ForTwo 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 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Smart ForTwo (71 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Smart ForTwo should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka.
Because 2012 Smart ForTwo 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 Smart ForTwo. 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 Smart ForTwo (125 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Smart ForTwo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka. 2012 Smart ForTwo 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 Smart ForTwo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Ka | 2012 Smart ForTwo | |
Make | Ford | Smart |
Model | Ka | ForTwo |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Rear |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 71 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 105 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automated manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |