1999 Ford Ka vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Ford Ka would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 102 more horse power than 1999 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 510 kg more than 1999 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 SLK 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (240 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Ka. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK has automatic transmission and 1999 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 1999 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Ka | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | SLK |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 105 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 70 L |
