1998 Ford Ka vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Ka would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (362 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 303 more horse power than 1998 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 769 kg more than 1998 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (510 Nm) has 405 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Ka. (105 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Ka | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | CLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 362 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1649 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 62 L |
