1997 Ford Ka vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420
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 420. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 would be higher. At 4,196 cc (8 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 (218 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 159 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 weights approximately 720 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 420 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 420. 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 420 (329 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Ka | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 420 | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Ka | 420 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 4196 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 218 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 105 Nm | 329 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1600 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 5070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1840 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2850 mm |