1996 Ford Ka vs. 2004 Renault Espace

To start off, 2004 Renault Espace is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Ka would be higher. At 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Renault Espace is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Renault Espace (175 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Espace should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Espace weights approximately 940 kg more than 1996 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, 2004 Renault Espace (350 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Renault Espace will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka. 2004 Renault Espace has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Renault Espace will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Ford Ka 2004 Renault Espace
Make Ford Renault
Model Ka Espace
Year Released 1996 2004
Body Type Hatchback Minivan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1299 cc 2946 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 58 HP 175 HP
Engine RPM 5000 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 105 Nm 350 Nm
Torque RPM 2500 RPM 1800 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.5:1 18.5:1
Top Speed 145 km/hour 205 km/hour
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 908 kg 1848 kg
Vehicle Length 3630 mm 4670 mm
Vehicle Width 1640 mm 1870 mm
Vehicle Height 1370 mm 1700 mm
Wheelbase Size 2450 mm 2750 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 42 L 83 L