1997 Ford Ka vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL (423 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 364 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 905 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 SL 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 SL. 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 SL (700 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 595 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | SL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 423 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3500 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 | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4612 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 2099 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1315 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2585 mm |
