2003 Ford Ka vs. 1989 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Suzuki Alto. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Suzuki Alto would be higher. At 1,597 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1989 Suzuki Alto. (38 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1989 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Ka weights approximately 276 kg more than 1989 Suzuki Alto. 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, 2003 Ford Ka (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Suzuki Alto. (59 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1989 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Ford | Suzuki |
| Model | Ka | Alto |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1989 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 38 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 59 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 68.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 906 kg | 630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2180 mm |
