2002 Ford Ka vs. 1977 Mazda RX-4
To start off, 2002 Ford Ka is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Mazda RX-4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Mazda RX-4 would be higher. At 2,616 cc, 1977 Mazda RX-4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Ka (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1977 Mazda RX-4. (114 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1977 Mazda RX-4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Ka weights approximately 26 kg more than 1977 Mazda RX-4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1977 Mazda RX-4 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 1977 Mazda RX-4. 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 (175 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Mazda RX-4. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Mazda RX-4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Ka | 1977 Mazda RX-4 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ka | RX-4 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1977 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1110 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |
