2003 Ford Ka vs. 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass would be higher. At 2,474 cc (4 cylinders), 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass weights approximately 208 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.
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, 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass (179 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka. 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1986 Oldsmobile Cutlass | |
| Make | Ford | Oldsmobile |
| Model | Ka | Cutlass |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2474 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1170 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2640 mm |
