1997 Ford Ka vs. 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1997 Ford Ka is newer by 56 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,229 cc (6 cylinders), 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Ka (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230. (53 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 570 kg more than 1997 Ford Ka.
Because 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 (139 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Ka | 1941 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | 230 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1941 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2229 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 139 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1450 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1620 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 3060 mm |
