2003 Ford Ka vs. 1997 Dodge Intrepid
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Dodge Intrepid. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Dodge Intrepid would be higher. At 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Dodge Intrepid is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Dodge Intrepid (214 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (73 HP @ 6150 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Dodge Intrepid should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Dodge Intrepid weights approximately 635 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, 1997 Dodge Intrepid (339 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Dodge Intrepid will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka. 1997 Dodge Intrepid 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. 1997 Dodge Intrepid will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1997 Dodge Intrepid | |
| Make | Ford | Dodge |
| Model | Ka | Intrepid |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 3518 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 214 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 339 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 5123 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 68 L |
