1996 Ford Ka vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 13 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 1,697 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (114 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 417 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz A (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 2009 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | A |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 60 L |
