2003 Ford Ka vs. 2009 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2009 Nissan 350Z is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Ka would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Nissan 350Z (309 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 240 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka.
Because 2009 Nissan 350Z 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 2009 Nissan 350Z. 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, 2009 Nissan 350Z (358 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 2009 Nissan 350Z | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Ka | 350Z |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 309 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 358 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 95.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 81.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.1 seconds | 5.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1330 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2660 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |
