2002 Ford Ka vs. 1978 Ford Capri

To start off, 2002 Ford Ka is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Ford Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Ford Capri would be higher. At 1,993 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Ford Capri is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Ka (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1978 Ford Capri. (97 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1978 Ford Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Ka weights approximately 104 kg more than 1978 Ford Capri. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1978 Ford Capri 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 1978 Ford Capri. 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 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Ford Capri. (151 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Ford Capri. 1978 Ford Capri has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1978 Ford Capri will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Ford Ka 1978 Ford Capri
Make Ford Ford
Model Ka Capri
Year Released 2002 1978
Body Type Roadster Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1596 cc 1993 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 135 HP 97 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 175 Nm 151 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.1 mm 86.1 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75.5 mm 86.1 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1136 kg 1032 kg
Vehicle Length 3660 mm 4380 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1340 mm 1370 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2570 mm