2003 Ford Ka vs. 1981 Nissan Cherry
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Nissan Cherry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Nissan Cherry would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (59 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1981 Nissan Cherry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Ka weights approximately 81 kg more than 1981 Nissan Cherry. 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 (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Nissan Cherry. (96 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Nissan Cherry.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1981 Nissan Cherry | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Ka | Cherry |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1270 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 96 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 906 kg | 825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2400 mm |
