2009 BMW 550 vs. 1999 Ford Ka
To start off, 2009 BMW 550 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Ford Ka would be higher. At 4,799 cc, 2009 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 550 (657 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 598 more horse power than 1999 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 550 weights approximately 780 kg more than 1999 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 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 2009 BMW 550. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2009 BMW 550 (490 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 385 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Ka. 2009 BMW 550 has automatic transmission and 1999 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 1999 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW 550 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 550 | 1999 Ford Ka | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 550 | Ka |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4799 cc | 1297 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 657 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 490 Nm | 105 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1660 kg | 880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 40 L |
