2004 Ford Ka vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2004 Ford Ka is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 18 would be higher. At 1,397 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Renault 18 (63 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2004 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Renault 18 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Renault 18 weights approximately 33 kg more than 2004 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, 1978 Renault 18 (103 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Ka. (99 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Ka | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Ka | 18 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1397 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 63 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 103 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2450 mm |
