2002 Ford Ka vs. 1998 Opel Speedster
To start off, 2002 Ford Ka is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Opel Speedster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Opel Speedster would be higher. At 2,198 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Opel Speedster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Opel Speedster (145 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2002 Ford Ka. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Opel Speedster should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Ka weights approximately 191 kg more than 1998 Opel Speedster.
Because 1998 Opel Speedster 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 1998 Opel Speedster. 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, 1998 Opel Speedster (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Ka. (175 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1998 Opel Speedster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Ka | 1998 Opel Speedster | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Ka | Speedster |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2198 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 217 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 945 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 60 L |
