1996 Ford Ka vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 16 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 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (454 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 396 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ka. (58 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 887 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 2012 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (600 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 495 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ka. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ka | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 58 HP | 454 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 600 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Top Speed | 145 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 908 kg | 1795 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4606 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1796 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 66 L |
