2004 Ford Ka vs. 1962 Lotus Elite
To start off, 2004 Ford Ka is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1962 Lotus Elite. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1962 Lotus Elite would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1962 Lotus Elite (83 HP) has 24 more horse power than 2004 Ford Ka. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1962 Lotus Elite should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Ka weights approximately 302 kg more than 1962 Lotus Elite.
Because 1962 Lotus Elite 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 1962 Lotus Elite. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1962 Lotus Elite (102 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Ka. (99 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1962 Lotus Elite will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Ka | 1962 Lotus Elite | |
| Make | Ford | Lotus |
| Model | Ka | Elite |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1962 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1215 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 83 HP |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 102 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 76.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 66.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 660 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1190 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2240 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 29 L |
