1997 Ford Ka vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 11 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 235 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Ka | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Ka | CLK |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 3497 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 268 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 105 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1115 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4640 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 62 L |