1997 Ford Ka vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 1997 Ford Ka is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 608 kg more than 1997 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 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 1985 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, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Ka | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Ka | 230 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2299 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 134 HP |
Torque | 105 Nm | 205 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 95.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 80.3 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1488 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4770 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2810 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 72 L |