1997 Ford Ka vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 16 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (291 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 232 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1140 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz S (385 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Ka | 2013 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Ka | S |
Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 3500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 6 valves |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 291 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 105 Nm | 385 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 86 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 2020 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 5226 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 2120 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1479 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 3165 mm |