1996 Ford Ka vs. 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1996 Ford Ka is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL (168 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 452 kg more than 1996 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 1970 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | SL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1970 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2778 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1360 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
