2001 BMW M3 vs. 1998 Ford Ka
To start off, 2001 BMW M3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Ka would be higher. At 3,246 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 283 more horse power than 1998 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW M3 weights approximately 715 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 2001 BMW M3 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 2001 BMW M3. 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, 2001 BMW M3 (502 Nm) has 397 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Ka. (105 Nm). This means 2001 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Ka. 2001 BMW M3 has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 BMW M3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 BMW M3 | 1998 Ford Ka | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Ka |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3246 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 502 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1595 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 40 L |
