2001 Ford Ka vs. 1971 Ford Escort
To start off, 2001 Ford Ka is newer by 30 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Ka (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1971 Ford Escort. (38 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1971 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Ka weights approximately 75 kg more than 1971 Ford Escort. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Ford Escort 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 1971 Ford Escort. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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 Ford Ka (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Ford Escort. (68 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Ford Escort. 1971 Ford Escort has automatic transmission and 2001 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 2001 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1971 Ford Escort will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Ka | 1971 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ka | Escort |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1098 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 68 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2400 mm |
