2003 Ford Ka vs. 1981 Skoda Rapid R
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Skoda Rapid R. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Skoda Rapid R would be higher. At 1,594 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 5650 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1981 Skoda Rapid R. (62 HP @ 4750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1981 Skoda Rapid R. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Ka weights approximately 208 kg more than 1981 Skoda Rapid R. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1981 Skoda Rapid R 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 1981 Skoda Rapid R. 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 (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Skoda Rapid R. (99 Nm @ 2850 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Skoda Rapid R.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1981 Skoda Rapid R | |
| Make | Ford | Skoda |
| Model | Ka | Rapid R |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1981 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1289 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 99 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2850 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 852 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 47 L |
