2004 Ford Ka vs. 1983 Renault 18
To start off, 2004 Ford Ka is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Renault 18 would be higher. At 1,647 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1983 Renault 18. (80 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1983 Renault 18. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Ka weights approximately 111 kg more than 1983 Renault 18. 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, 1983 Renault 18 (136 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1983 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 | 1983 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Ka | 18 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1647 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 80 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.2 mm | 81.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
