Ford Ka Price

Ford Ka Price

About Ford Ka

First released in 1996, the Ford Ka is one of the leading city cars on the market, and has proved consistently popular among drivers of all ages due to its eye catching style, affordability and driving experience. The Ka was a hit almost immediately after being launched, despite some finding its design a little too unique. Now in its second generation it remains one of the leading cars in the small city car class.

Why buy a used Ka?

First launched in 1996, the KA has proved to be one of Ford's most popular cars, and remains one of the leading city cars on the market. Economic, stylish and above all a joy to drive, its success is no surprise, and they are still a very common sight on the UK's roads today.

Although they are now into their second generation, it is arguably the first model Ka that remains the most popular choice among motorists. Its round styling remains eye catching today, while it is economic both to buy and to run.

In the early models, miles per gallon returns are around the mid 40 mark, while with the second generation car you can expect returns which are slightly better; sometimes more than 60mpg. This might not make the Ka a market leader, but it does place it within a very manageable bracket for a city car. The 1.3 TDCi diesel offers the best returns and efficiency, but with a greater initial cost it is only really a worthwhile investment for someone who is going to clock up a large number of miles.

The second generation Ka was produced alongside Fiat using the existing Fiat 500's platform, so there are many similarities between the two when it comes to the ride and performance. The Ka is generally thought to fare a little better in the handling stakes, competently tackling corners and city roads. The ride compares a little unfavourably to the Fiat, but the consensus is that the while the newer Ka drives well, it lacks the fun of the first generation model. This is relative though, as the first generation Ka was one of best handling and most fun cars on the market.

Where the second generation car does improve on its predecessor however is inside. Space was an issue in the first model, and while the second is no market leader, there is more on offer - particularly in the luggage department. Like the Fiat 500, reliability is good, and so along with the running costs, the Ford Ka makes for an attractive, economical car.

Ka updates

First launched in 1996, the Ford Ka has been a popular choice for motorists of all ages.

Here's a brief look at the Ford Ka's history, starting in 1996.

• In 1996 the Ford Ka was launched, receiving mixed reactions from the public, but praise from the motoring press.
• That same year it won a number of awards, including Autocar's Car of the Year and the Sunday Telegraph's Favourite Car of 1996.
• From 1997 right up until 2002, the Ford Ka was named the best budget car by What Car? magazine.
• Although the first model featured black plastic bumpers designed to minimise inner city damage, popular demand brought about a new model with body coloured bumpers in 1999.
• In 1998 the Ford Ka was named a Millennium Product by the Design Council, which recognised the design innovation of the car.
• 2002 saw the Ford Ka enter into the top ten list of the best selling cars in the UK, placing at number ten.
• In 2003 the SportKa, featuring a sportier trim and improved performance was launched, as well as a convertible model called StreetKa.
• In 2008 the second generation Ford Ka was released, using the platform from the Fiat 500. This was the first Ka to offer the option of a diesel engine.

Which used Ka should I buy?

There are relatively few different Ka models to choose from. Here are some of the most recent and their specifications.

Ford Ka Studio

Body colour bumpers, headlight courtesy delay, EPAS, intelligent protection system, ABS with EBD, accessory power socket, height adjustable steering column, ISOFIX child seat anchor points.

Ford Ka Edge

Air conditioning, front electric windows,body colour bumpers, headlight courtesy delay, EPAS, intelligent protection system, ABS with EBD, accessory power socket, height adjustable steering column, ISOFIX child seat anchor points.

Ford Ka Zetec

15" alloy wheels, front fog lights, Quickclear heated windscreen, premium trip computer, air conditioning, front electric windows,body colour bumpers, headlight courtesy delay, EPAS, intelligent protection system, ABS with EBD, accessory power socket, height adjustable steering column, ISOFIX child seat anchor points.

Ford Ka Titanium

16" alloy wheels, front fog lights, Quickclear heated windscreen, premium trip computer, electronic automatic temperature control, chrome finishings, front electric windows,body colour bumpers, headlight courtesy delay, EPAS, intelligent protection system, ABS with EBD, accessory power socket, height adjustable steering column, ISOFIX child seat anchor points.

Ford Ka Grand Prix II

Rear spoiler, Grand Prix styling, 16" alloy wheels, front fog lights, Quickclear heated windscreen, premium trip computer, air conditioning, front electric windows,body colour bumpers, headlight courtesy delay, EPAS, intelligent protection system, ABS with EBD, accessory power socket, height adjustable steering column, ISOFIX child seat anchor points.

Ford Ka Metal Ka

Metal exterior and interior styling, 16" alloy wheels, front fog lights, Quickclear heated windscreen, premium trip computer, air conditioning, front electric windows,body colour bumpers, headlight courtesy delay, EPAS, intelligent protection system, ABS with EBD, accessory power socket, height adjustable steering column, ISOFIX child seat anchor points.

What should I look for when buying a used Ka?

• Kas have been prone to rusting, so make sure you do have a thorough check for this. Particular areas for concern are the petrol filler cap, bottom of the A and B pillars, and the suspension arms.
• Some Ka owners have mentioned the alternator cable corroding, so make sure to check for this.
• Make sure the car idles okay. If it feels or sounds like it is hesitating, it could mean a clogged up idle control valve or throttle body.
• Bushes on Ford Kas only last around 30,000 miles. Make sure there is evidence that these have been replaced after regular intervals.
• Some of the later Kas have had problems with electrics. Check this by making sure any lights, radio, or air conditioning systems are in working order.
• Double check that the steering feels responsive and not loose, as this has been a fairly regular complaint.

Ford Ka Price

Source: https://www.theaa.com/used-cars/used-ford-ka