2002 BMW 520 vs. 1997 Ford Ka
To start off, 2002 BMW 520 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Ka would be higher. At 2,170 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 BMW 520 (168 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 109 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 BMW 520 weights approximately 790 kg more than 1997 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 BMW 520 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 2002 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2002 BMW 520 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2002 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 BMW 520 | 1997 Ford Ka | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 520 | Ka |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2170 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1670 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
