2009 Ford Ka vs. 1998 Ford Focus
To start off, 2009 Ford Ka is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,388 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (128 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2009 Ford Ka. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Focus weights approximately 187 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.
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, 1998 Ford Focus (175 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Ka | 1998 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ka | Focus |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 68 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 171 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.7 seconds | 14.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 887 kg | 1074 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
