1998 BMW 317 vs. 2003 Ford Ka
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,665 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 317 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 317 (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 317 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 393 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 317 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 1998 BMW 317. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1998 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
1998 BMW 317 | 2003 Ford Ka | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 317 | Ka |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1299 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 89 HP | 69 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 106 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 962 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1650 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |