2003 Ford Ka vs. 1997 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 TVR Chimaera (225 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Ka weights approximately 35 kg more than 1997 TVR Chimaera.
Because 1997 TVR Chimaera 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 1997 TVR Chimaera. 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, 1997 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 238 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1997 TVR Chimaera | |
| Make | Ford | TVR |
| Model | Ka | Chimaera |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 3946 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 373 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 94.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 71.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1230 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2290 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 57 L |
