2003 Ford Ka vs. 1985 TVR 390

To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 TVR 390. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 TVR 390 would be higher. At 3,905 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 TVR 390 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 TVR 390 (275 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 181 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 TVR 390 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 TVR 390 weights approximately 201 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1985 TVR 390 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 1985 TVR 390. 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, 1985 TVR 390 (367 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1985 TVR 390 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Ford Ka 1985 TVR 390
Make Ford TVR
Model Ka 390
Year Released 2003 1985
Body Type Hatchback Convertible
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1597 cc 3905 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 2 valves
Horse Power 94 HP 275 HP
Engine RPM 6000 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 135 Nm 367 Nm
Torque RPM 4250 RPM 3500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 82.1 mm 89.8 mm
Engine Stroke Size 75.5 mm 77.1 mm
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 4 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 906 kg 1107 kg
Vehicle Length 3630 mm 4020 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1730 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1210 mm
Wheelbase Size 2460 mm 2390 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 40 L 61 L