2008 Ford Ka vs. 2005 Smart ForTwo
To start off, 2008 Ford Ka is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Smart ForTwo. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Smart ForTwo would be higher. At 1,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Ka is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Ka (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 2005 Smart ForTwo. (40 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 2005 Smart ForTwo. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Ka weights approximately 157 kg more than 2005 Smart ForTwo. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Smart ForTwo 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 2005 Smart ForTwo. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, both vehicles can yield 100 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Ka | 2005 Smart ForTwo | |
| Make | Ford | Smart |
| Model | Ka | ForTwo |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 40 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 100 Nm | 100 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 65.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 155 km/hour | 135 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.4 seconds | 19.8 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 805 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1520 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1560 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 1820 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.5 L/100km | 3.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 22 L |
