2003 Ford Ka vs. 1974 Reliant Rebel
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Reliant Rebel. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Reliant Rebel would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 1974 Reliant Rebel. (31 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1974 Reliant Rebel. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Ka weights approximately 331 kg more than 1974 Reliant Rebel. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Reliant Rebel 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 1974 Reliant Rebel. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Ford Ka (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Reliant Rebel. (52 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Reliant Rebel.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1974 Reliant Rebel | |
| Make | Ford | Reliant |
| Model | Ka | Rebel |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 701 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 31 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 52 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 60.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 61 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 906 kg | 575 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2270 mm |
