1998 Ford Ka vs. 1981 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 1998 Ford Ka is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 1,488 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Nissan Cherry is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 Nissan Cherry (89 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1998 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 Nissan Cherry should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Ka weights approximately 30 kg more than 1981 Nissan Cherry.
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, 1981 Nissan Cherry (123 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1981 Nissan Cherry will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Ka | 1981 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Ka | Cherry |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 850 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2400 mm |
