1998 Ford Ka vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 10 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (503 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 444 more horse power than 1998 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 1430 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Ford Ka. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 526 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Ka. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Ka | 2008 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | ML |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 503 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 631 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 102.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 2310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 95 L |
