2009 Ford Ka vs. 1981 BMW M1
To start off, 2009 Ford Ka is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 205 more horse power than 2009 Ford Ka. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1981 BMW M1 weights approximately 334 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 1981 BMW M1 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 1981 BMW M1. 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, 1981 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1981 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Ka | 1981 BMW M1 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Ka | M1 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1981 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 3453 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.7 seconds | 5.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 116 L |
