1997 Ford Ka vs. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1997 Ford Ka is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,797 cc (6 cylinders), 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (197 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 665 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 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280. 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, 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 (260 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Ka | 1993 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | 280 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1993 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 70 L |
