1998 Ford Ka vs. 1973 Honda Z
To start off, 1998 Ford Ka is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Honda Z would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Ka (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1973 Honda Z. (32 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1973 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Ka weights approximately 300 kg more than 1973 Honda Z. 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, 1998 Ford Ka (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 62 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Honda Z. (43 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Honda Z.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Ka | 1973 Honda Z | |
| Make | Ford | Honda |
| Model | Ka | Z |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 2 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 32 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 43 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 69.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3140 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1310 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 25 L |
