1997 Ford Ka vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 4,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 243 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS weights approximately 930 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 CLS 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 CLS. 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 CLS (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 355 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS 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 CLS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Ka | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLS | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | CLS |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 4965 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |
