2003 Ford Ka vs. 1974 Volvo 244
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volvo 244. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volvo 244 would be higher. At 2,127 cc (4 cylinders), 1974 Volvo 244 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Volvo 244 (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1974 Volvo 244 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Volvo 244 weights approximately 442 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1974 Volvo 244 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 Volvo 244. 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, 1974 Volvo 244 (170 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1974 Volvo 244 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1974 Volvo 244 | |
| Make | Ford | Volvo |
| Model | Ka | 244 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1974 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2127 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1404 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
