2002 Ford Ka vs. 1976 Renault 12
To start off, 2002 Ford Ka is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Renault 12. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Renault 12 would be higher. At 1,596 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Ka (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1976 Renault 12. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1976 Renault 12. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Ka weights approximately 230 kg more than 1976 Renault 12. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (175 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Renault 12. (94 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Renault 12.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Ka | 1976 Renault 12 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Ka | 12 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 94 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 73 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 8.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 143 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 906 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.9 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 56 L |
