2003 Ford Ka vs. 1983 Nissan Prairie
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Nissan Prairie. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Nissan Prairie 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 15 more horse power than 1983 Nissan Prairie. (79 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1983 Nissan Prairie. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1983 Nissan Prairie weights approximately 69 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, 2003 Ford Ka (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 13 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 Nissan Prairie. (122 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 Nissan Prairie.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1983 Nissan Prairie | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Ka | Prairie |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1487 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 122 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 906 kg | 975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1610 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2520 mm |
