1996 Ford Ka vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 5,461 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK (382 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 324 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 CLK. 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 CLK (530 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 425 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 2007 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | CLK |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 5461 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 382 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 530 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 62 L |
