2003 Ford Ka vs. 1978 Renault 4
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 4 would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Ka (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1978 Renault 4. (34 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1978 Renault 4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Ka weights approximately 247 kg more than 1978 Renault 4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Renault 4. (72 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Renault 4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1978 Renault 4 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Ka | 4 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1108 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 34 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 72 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 70 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3670 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
