2001 Ford Ka vs. 2011 BMW M3
To start off, 2011 BMW M3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Ka would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 355 more horse power than 2001 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW M3 weights approximately 1005 kg more than 2001 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW M3 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 2011 BMW M3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2011 BMW M3 (400 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 295 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Ka | 2011 BMW M3 | |
| Make | Ford | BMW |
| Model | Ka | M3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 3999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 414 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 8300 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 75.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4615 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1803 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1392 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 63 L |
