2003 Ford Ka vs. 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star would be higher. At 1,584 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star (97 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star weights approximately 188 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, 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka. 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star 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. 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1998 Mitsubishi Space Star | |
| Make | Ford | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Ka | Space Star |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1584 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 97 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1150 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
