2006 Ford Ka vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Ford Ka would be higher. At 1,599 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (122 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2006 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze weights approximately 165 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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (154 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Ka. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze has automatic transmission and 2006 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 2006 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Ka | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Ka | Cruze |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11:00 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Top Speed | 173 km/hour | 190 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.1 seconds | 12 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1797 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1476 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2685 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 59 L |
