1996 Ford Ka vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 567 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 2007 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 2007 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 2007 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 223 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 62 L |
