2003 Ford Ka vs. 1980 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1980 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1980 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 2,292 cc, 1980 Mazda RX-7 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1980 Mazda RX-7 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1980 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1980 Mazda RX-7 weights approximately 98 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 1980 Mazda RX-7 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 Mazda RX-7. 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, 1980 Mazda RX-7 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1980 Mazda RX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1980 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ka | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1980 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2292 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1270 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 65 L |
