2008 Ford Ka vs. 1996 Saturn SL
To start off, 2008 Ford Ka is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Saturn SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Saturn SL would be higher. At 1,901 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Saturn SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Saturn SL (100 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2008 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Saturn SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Saturn SL weights approximately 90 kg more than 2008 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, 1996 Saturn SL (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 52 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Saturn SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Ka | 1996 Saturn SL | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Ka | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1056 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
