1999 Ford Ka vs. 2013 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2013 Nissan Maxima is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Ford Ka would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Nissan Maxima (286 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 1999 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Nissan Maxima weights approximately 741 kg more than 1999 Ford Ka. 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, 2013 Nissan Maxima (354 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 249 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Ka | 2013 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Ka | Maxima |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 354 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1621 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4843 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1467 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2775 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 76 L |
