1997 Toyota Corolla vs. 2012 Ford Ka
To start off, 2012 Ford Ka is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,332 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Toyota Corolla is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Toyota Corolla (85 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2012 Ford Ka. (74 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Toyota Corolla should accelerate faster than 2012 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota Corolla weights approximately 120 kg more than 2012 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 Ford Ka (145 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (120 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Toyota Corolla | 2012 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Toyota | Ford |
| Model | Corolla | Ka |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1332 cc | 1247 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 73.5 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 17.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1175 kg | 1055 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2310 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 75 L | 35 L |
