2004 Ford Ka vs. 2012 Ford Taurus
To start off, 2012 Ford Taurus is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Ka would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Taurus (263 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 2004 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Taurus weights approximately 685 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, 2012 Ford Taurus (337 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Ka. 2012 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Ka | 2012 Ford Taurus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ka | Taurus |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 337 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1821 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 5154 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1935 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1542 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2868 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 72 L |
