2003 Ford Ka vs. 1980 Ford Cortina
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Ford Cortina. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Ford Cortina would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 59 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Ford Cortina weights approximately 40 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka.
Because 1980 Ford Cortina 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 1980 Ford Cortina. 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 (99 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1980 Ford Cortina. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1980 Ford Cortina.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1980 Ford Cortina | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ka | Cortina |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1294 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1002 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2590 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 54 L |
