2004 Ford Ka vs. 1996 Ford Ka
To start off, 2004 Ford Ka is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Ka would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Ka weights approximately 111 kg more than 1996 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, 2004 Ford Ka (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Ka | 1996 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ka | Ka |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 58 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1019 kg | 908 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 42 L |
