2003 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Ford Ka
To start off, 2003 BMW M3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Ka would be higher. At 3,168 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 BMW M3 (342 HP @ 7900 RPM) has 284 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 BMW M3 weights approximately 477 kg more than 1996 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 BMW M3 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 2003 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2003 BMW M3 (350 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 BMW M3 | 1996 Ford Ka | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M3 | Ka |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3168 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 342 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7900 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 350 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4900 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 259 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 908 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 42 L |
