1998 Ford Ka vs. 1991 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 1998 Ford Ka is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Ford Thunderbird. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Ford Thunderbird would be higher. At 4,942 cc (8 cylinders), 1991 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Ford Thunderbird (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1998 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 872 kg more than 1998 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Ford Thunderbird 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 1991 Ford Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1991 Ford Thunderbird (373 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 268 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1991 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Ka | 1991 Ford Thunderbird | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ka | Thunderbird |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 4942 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 101.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1752 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2880 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 65 L |
