Ford KA 1.3/1.6 1996-present Ford KA Performance

There was only one engine at launch: the 1.3 Endura-E. It?s not quick, 0-60mph 14.3sec and a top speed of 93mph, but strength of the Ka was its chassis, and it really was excellent. The asthmatic powerplant was something of a disappointment with only 59bhp, but this returned excellent economy of about 40+mpg. The Ka was in a class of it?s own at the time, and the only comparisons to other cars are possibly the non-UK left hand drive Renault Twingo. In 1999 Ford installed the Duratec 1.3 engine with 69bhp, which significantly improved mid-range performance. As well as The steering is excellent and has a taut body control unknown for a car of this size. It has enough handling finesse, which, with its low power, managed to be more fun and would handle many larger superminis and hatchbacks. But until 2003 it did not have the power to match them in a straight line. Ford introduced the SportKa, a long awaited performance derivative, with a 1.6 litre 16v Duratec unit with 94bhp cutting the 0-60 time to 9.0sec and topping out at 108mph. All came with a standard 5-speed gearbox. Ford KA Comfort, Equipment and Specification

The Ford Ka was introduced with a basic spec in 1996. As standard, the Ka came with an immobiliser, a driver?s airbag and a radio cassette player. In 1997, the Ka2 was introduced as an additional trim level and featured power steering, central locking and metallic paint. Ka3 was introduced and introduced all of the above and included air-conditioning and alloy wheels.

Inside, the Ka has a feel of space belying its size. The trim is very dark but very functional. The front seat passengers get the best deal here, although rear seat space is very limited, as is the boot space. There is good visibility and the driver?s seat is adjustable.

Its rides well in all versions, and has good refinement for it?s size, but the Ka is natural environment is in town where is excels, but has so much chassis ability a good B road can really be real fun. The SportKa is the best blend of all the Ka?s basic elements with a touch of pep.. The Ka is classless and ageless in appeal and a well sorted Ka makes cheap, reliable transport.

Ford KA Conclusions?

Recommended, the Ford Ka is a brilliant small car that has ability beyond its physical size. Not ideal for a family, but for a two car household or single person, you cannot go far wrong. The Duratec 1.3 unit from 2000 is recommended as it has improved efficiency and performance. The SportKa turns the car into a real weapon the fizzy 1.6 16v engine really suits it and there?s nothing to recommend the 1.3 over it save fuel economy.

Ford KA ...So what?s good?

Great chassis, great fuel economy and good space for front occupants. The design is timeless and very cool even now. Cheap to buy, cheap to run and if you get a good one a real gem. Parts can be sourced anywhere.

?And what?s bad? Equipment levels very low on early models. Many have been owned by first time drivers and as a result will have some accident damage. Endura-E engines not the best.

Ford KA als

None in 1996, but later in life: Seat ArosaFiat LupoCitroen C2 Ford Ka 1996 Vital statistics: 0-60mph: 14.3sec, (1.3), 9.0sec (SportKa)0-100mph: n/a In gear statistics: 30-70mph: 18.2sec (1.3)50-70mph: 17.8sec (1.3) Max speed: 93mph (1.3), 108mph (Sportka) Economy: 45 mpg (37mpg SportKa)