2006 Ford Ka vs. 1997 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2006 Ford Ka is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Hyundai Sonata. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Hyundai Sonata would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Hyundai Sonata (85 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2006 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 298 kg more than 2006 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, 1997 Hyundai Sonata (132 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Ka | 1997 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Ford | Hyundai |
| Model | Ka | Sonata |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 132 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
