2003 Ford Ka vs. 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier would be higher. At 2,190 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier (120 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier weights approximately 253 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, 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier (183 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka. 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier 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. 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Ka | Cavalier |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2190 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 57 L |
