1998 Ford Ka vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL is newer by 14 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 6,000 cc (12 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL (621 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 562 more horse power than 1998 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL weights approximately 1400 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL (999 Nm @ 2300 RPM) has 894 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Ka. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Ka | 2012 Mercedes-Benz CL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Ka | CL |
Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 6000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 621 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Torque | 105 Nm | 999 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 2280 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 5105 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1872 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1427 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2954 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 90 L |