2002 Ford Ka vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2002 Ford Ka is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (188 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2002 Ford Ka. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 409 kg more than 2002 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Ka. (175 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Ka. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Ka | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | 300 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 188 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 260 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 206 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1545 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 2010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3080 mm |
