Ford Ka

Performance

1.3-litre is an old workhorse of an engine. It's unrefined but eager. The 1.6 Sportka has a bit more oomph, but not much more.

Driving

Steering and handling is spot on and the ride is fairly comfortable. Sportka adds a few more thrills to proceedings.

Feel

Suppresses noise impressively, though the engines become more noticeable at high revs.

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Price

The old 1.3 engine is not as clean or economical as other cars in the class. Insurance will be cheap, residuals on the Sportka will be reasonable but that list price is a bit heavy, especially with the poor kit levels at entry-level.

Quality

Looks pretty basic inside but it should be durable. Engines, similarly, should be OK and there's a three-year warranty.

Safety

One airbags and ABS are standard. More bags are optional. A rather poor 3 NCAP stars were awarded when tested.

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Space

The Ka is a pretty small beats, but it'll fit in four. Small boot extends to a not-much-bigger 200 litres with the rear seats splitfolded.

Equipment

Power steering, a driver airbag and a radio is all that's available at entry-level spec. Move up a couple of trim levels and you'll get most of the essentials.

Alternatives

Fiat Panda,Toyota Aygo,Citroen C1,Peugeot 107

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Pros

Drives surprisingly well and the Ka is fairly unique on the road.

Cons

Doubtful whether the Ka is that cheap, taking everything into account. Tiny, and mean kit levels. Not the safest supermini about.

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