1997 Ford Ka vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (469 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 410 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 956 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 E 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 E. 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 E (700 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 595 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | E |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 469 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2650 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1836 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |
