1997 Ford Ka vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 12 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 2,987 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 1950 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (540 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 435 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Ka | 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | E |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2987 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |
