2003 Ford Ka vs. 1999 MCC Smart
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 MCC Smart. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 MCC Smart would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Ka (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 1999 MCC Smart. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1999 MCC Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Ka weights approximately 262 kg more than 1999 MCC Smart. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 MCC Smart 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 1999 MCC Smart. 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, 2003 Ford Ka (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 MCC Smart. (80 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 MCC Smart. 1999 MCC Smart 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 MCC Smart will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1999 MCC Smart | |
| Make | Ford | MCC |
| Model | Ka | Smart |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 63.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 63 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2280 mm |
