2003 Ford Ka vs. 1986 Holden Commodore
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Holden Commodore. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Holden Commodore would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Holden Commodore is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Holden Commodore (153 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Holden Commodore should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Holden Commodore weights approximately 253 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 1986 Holden Commodore 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 1986 Holden Commodore. 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, 1986 Holden Commodore (247 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Holden Commodore will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1986 Holden Commodore | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Ka | Commodore |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 247 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
