2002 Ford Ka vs. 1971 Reliant Rebel
To start off, 2002 Ford Ka is newer by 31 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Reliant Rebel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Reliant Rebel would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Ka (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1971 Reliant Rebel. (31 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1971 Reliant Rebel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Ka weights approximately 305 kg more than 1971 Reliant Rebel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Reliant Rebel 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 Reliant Rebel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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 Ford Ka (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Reliant Rebel. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Reliant Rebel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Ka | 1971 Reliant Rebel | |
| Make | Ford | Reliant |
| Model | Ka | Rebel |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 699 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 60.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 61 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2270 mm |
