2003 Ford Ka vs. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 8 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 1,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Cruze is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze (138 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Cruze weights approximately 403 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, 2011 Chevrolet Cruze (200 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 2011 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Ka | Cruze |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1850 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4597 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 48 L |
