2002 Ford Ka vs. 1996 Honda Civic
To start off, 2002 Ford Ka is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Honda Civic. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Honda Civic 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 45 more horse power than 1996 Honda Civic. (90 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1996 Honda Civic. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Ka weights approximately 171 kg more than 1996 Honda Civic. 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 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Honda Civic. (124 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Ka | 1996 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Ford | Honda |
| Model | Ka | Civic |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 90 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 965 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2630 mm |
