2005 Ford Ka vs. 1965 NSU 1200
To start off, 2005 Ford Ka is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1965 NSU 1200. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1965 NSU 1200 would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1965 NSU 1200. (54 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1965 NSU 1200. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Ka weights approximately 303 kg more than 1965 NSU 1200. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1965 NSU 1200 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1965 NSU 1200. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Ka, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2005 Ford Ka (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 1965 NSU 1200. (83 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1965 NSU 1200.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Ka | 1965 NSU 1200 | |
| Make | Ford | NSU |
| Model | Ka | 1200 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1965 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1177 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 54 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 83 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 133 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1019 kg | 716 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4010 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1510 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2440 mm |
