2003 Ford Ka vs. 1977 Ford Escort
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Ford Escort. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Ford Escort would be higher. At 1,294 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Ka (73 HP @ 6150 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1977 Ford Escort. (45 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1977 Ford Escort. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Ford Escort weights approximately 5 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka.
Because 1977 Ford Escort 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 1977 Ford Escort. 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 (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Ford Escort. (60 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Ford Escort.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1977 Ford Escort | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ka | Escort |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 937 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 45 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3980 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
