1997 Ford KA (RBT) Dimensions, Size & Specs

The Ford KA (RBT) from 1997 weighs between 870 kg and 890 kg (about 1918 to 1962 lbs) curb weight, with a maximum gross weight of 1265 kg (approximately 2789 lbs). This lightweight profile enhances fuel efficiency, agility, and responsiveness, especially in city driving conditions, while still accommodating passengers and luggage within its weight limits safely.

The luggage capacity of the Ford KA (RBT) stands at 186 liters (about 6.57 cubic feet) with the rear seats in place. When the rear seats are folded down, the usable cargo space significantly increases to 724 liters (approximately 25.57 cubic feet). This flexible luggage capacity allows drivers to optimize the space for passengers or bulky items, enhancing the vehicle's utility despite its compact size.

The Ford KA (RBT) originally comes with rims sized at 5J x 13. It uses tires sized 155/70 R13 and 165/60 R14. These relatively small wheels contribute to a smooth ride and good cushioning on urban roads, as well as low rolling resistance for better fuel economy. The tire sizes are typical for compact city cars, balancing grip, comfort, and economy effectively.

Yes, the Ford KA (RBT) with its length of 3620 mm (142.5 inches), width of 1639 mm (64.5 inches), and height of 1383 mm (54.4 inches) easily fits within the dimensions of a standard residential garage, which typically ranges around 6 meters (19.7 feet) deep and 3 meters (9.8 feet) wide. Its compact size ensures ample room for opening doors and maneuvering inside the garage without difficulty.

The 1997 Ford KA (RBT) was the first generation of the KA model, so it does not have an immediate predecessor in the same line. It was introduced as a new compact city car designed to fit between smaller Ford models and larger vehicles. Its dimensions and lightweight chassis set a new standard for small hatchbacks in Ford’s lineup during its production from 1996 to 2008.

Compared to contemporaries like the Fiat Seicento or the Volkswagen Polo of the late 1990s, the Ford KA (RBT) was one of the more compact models, especially in terms of length at 3620 mm (142.5 inches). Its narrow width and low height gave it a smaller footprint, advantageous in crowded urban environments. Its relatively larger cargo volume when seats are folded also made it a versatile option in the city car segment.

The Ford KA (RBT) is a compact hatchback designed primarily as an urban city car. Its small size, light weight, and efficient use of interior space make it ideal for city commuting, short trips, and navigating tight streets or limited parking spaces. It offers an economical, practical option for individuals or small families needing a reliable vehicle for everyday travel.

The Ford KA (RBT), with its lightweight curb weight between 870 kg and 890 kg (1918 to 1962 lbs) and compact dimensions, is highly agile and responsive. Its small turning radius and light steering effort make it easy to maneuver in urban traffic, while the suspension is tuned to provide a comfortable yet controlled ride. Its setup favors nimble handling rather than high-speed stability, which suits typical city driving perfectly.

While specific wheelbase and ground clearance figures are less commonly highlighted for the Ford KA (RBT), typical compact hatchbacks like the KA from its production era feature a moderate wheelbase that balances stability and maneuverability, usually around 2300 mm (90.5 inches) range. The ground clearance is sufficient for urban driving, ensuring the car handles speed bumps and potholes comfortably without compromising on driving stability. This balance aids in making the KA practical for city routes with varied road conditions.