2009 Ford Ka vs. 1961 Ford Zodiac
To start off, 2009 Ford Ka is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Ford Zodiac. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Ford Zodiac would be higher. At 2,552 cc (6 cylinders), 1961 Ford Zodiac is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1961 Ford Zodiac (76 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2009 Ford Ka. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1961 Ford Zodiac should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1961 Ford Zodiac weights approximately 251 kg more than 2009 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1961 Ford Zodiac 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 1961 Ford Zodiac. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1961 Ford Zodiac (187 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Ka. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1961 Ford Zodiac will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Ka | 1961 Ford Zodiac | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ka | Zodiac |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1961 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 2552 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 76 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.1:1 | 8.9:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 940 kg | 1191 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4600 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1510 mm | 1520 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2310 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 35 L | 40 L |
