1996 Ford Ka vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Ka would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (361 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 727 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz C (510 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 405 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1996 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 1996 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Ka | 2004 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Ka | C |
Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 58 HP | 361 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 105 Nm | 510 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 245 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1635 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4620 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 62 L |