2001 Ford Ka vs. 1979 Toyota Corolla

To start off, 2001 Ford Ka is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Toyota Corolla (68 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2001 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Toyota Corolla should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Toyota Corolla weights approximately 5 kg more than 2001 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1979 Toyota Corolla 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 1979 Toyota Corolla. 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, both vehicles can yield 105 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.

Compare all specifications:

2001 Ford Ka 1979 Toyota Corolla
Make Ford Toyota
Model Ka Corolla
Year Released 2001 1979
Body Type Hatchback Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1299 cc 1290 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 59 HP 68 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 5600 RPM
Torque 105 Nm 105 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 3600 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 880 kg 885 kg
Vehicle Length 3630 mm 4110 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1630 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2410 mm