2008 BMW 550 vs. 1996 Ford Ka
To start off, 2008 BMW 550 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Ka would be higher. At 4,800 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 302 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 550 weights approximately 822 kg more than 1996 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW 550 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 2008 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2008 BMW 550 (489 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 384 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 550 | 1996 Ford Ka | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 550 | Ka |
Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4800 cc | 1299 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 360 HP | 58 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 489 Nm | 105 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Top Speed | 241 km/hour | 145 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1730 kg | 908 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 3630 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1640 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2450 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 42 L |