2003 Ford Ka vs. 1981 Plymouth Horizon
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Plymouth Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Plymouth Horizon would be higher. At 1,715 cc (4 cylinders), 1981 Plymouth Horizon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Ka (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1981 Plymouth Horizon. (62 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1981 Plymouth Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 Plymouth Horizon weights approximately 38 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka.
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, 1981 Plymouth Horizon (115 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 Plymouth Horizon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1981 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Ford | Plymouth |
| Model | Ka | Horizon |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1715 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1000 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2530 mm |
