2007 Ford Ka vs. 1978 Renault 18
To start off, 2007 Ford Ka is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Renault 18. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Renault 18 would be higher. At 1,647 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Renault 18 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Renault 18 (78 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2007 Ford Ka. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Renault 18 should accelerate faster than 2007 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Renault 18 weights approximately 138 kg more than 2007 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, 1978 Renault 18 (136 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1978 Renault 18 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Ford Ka | 1978 Renault 18 | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Ka | 18 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1647 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 78 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 136 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 83.5 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 887 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1410 mm |
