1998 Ford Ka vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 8 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 209 more horse power than 1998 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 905 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 2006 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 245 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Ka. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Ka | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | E |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |
