2004 Ford Ka vs. 1985 Nissan Santana
To start off, 2004 Ford Ka is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Nissan Santana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Nissan Santana would be higher. At 1,781 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Nissan Santana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1985 Nissan Santana. (93 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1985 Nissan Santana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Ka weights approximately 62 kg more than 1985 Nissan Santana. 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, 1985 Nissan Santana (142 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1985 Nissan Santana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Ka | 1985 Nissan Santana | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Ka | Santana |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1985 |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 93 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1074 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2560 mm |
