1998 BMW 318 vs. 2009 Ford Ka
To start off, 2009 Ford Ka is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 BMW 318 (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 2009 Ford Ka. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 318 weights approximately 558 kg more than 2009 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 318 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 318. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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 318 (169 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 318 | 2009 Ford Ka | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 318 | Ka |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 114 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3900 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 887 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 40 L |
