2006 Ford Ka vs. 1973 Mazda 818
To start off, 2006 Ford Ka is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mazda 818. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mazda 818 would be higher. At 1,297 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 68 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Ka weights approximately 86 kg more than 1973 Mazda 818.
Because 1973 Mazda 818 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 1973 Mazda 818. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Ford Ka (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Mazda 818. (92 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Ka will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Mazda 818.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Ka | 1973 Mazda 818 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ka | 818 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1973 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1270 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 92 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1600 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2320 mm |
