2002 Ford Ka vs. 1997 Rover 400
To start off, 2002 Ford Ka is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Rover 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Rover 400 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 33 more horse power than 1997 Rover 400. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1997 Rover 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Ka weights approximately 16 kg more than 1997 Rover 400. 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, 1997 Rover 400 (182 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Ka. (175 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Rover 400 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Ka | 1997 Rover 400 | |
| Make | Ford | Rover |
| Model | Ka | 400 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| 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 | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2630 mm |
