2003 Ford Ka vs. 1983 Pontiac 1000
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Pontiac 1000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Pontiac 1000 would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Pontiac 1000 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Ka (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 1983 Pontiac 1000. (64 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1983 Pontiac 1000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Ka weights approximately 2 kg more than 1983 Pontiac 1000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Pontiac 1000 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 1983 Pontiac 1000. 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, 1983 Pontiac 1000 (109 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1983 Pontiac 1000 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1983 Pontiac 1000 | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Ka | 1000 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 64 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2400 mm |
