1997 Ford Ka vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Ka would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 905 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 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz C (220 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 115 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Ka | 2006 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 70 L |
