2003 Ford Ka vs. 1987 Nissan Vanette
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Nissan Vanette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Nissan Vanette would be higher. At 1,952 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Nissan Vanette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Ka (69 HP) has 9 more horse power than 1987 Nissan Vanette. (60 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1987 Nissan Vanette. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1987 Nissan Vanette weights approximately 498 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka.
Because 1987 Nissan Vanette 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 1987 Nissan Vanette. 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, 1987 Nissan Vanette (123 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1987 Nissan Vanette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1987 Nissan Vanette | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Ka | Vanette |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1952 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 60 HP |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 123 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3990 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1940 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2080 mm |
