2002 Ford Ka vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S
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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S (182 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2002 Ford Ka. (135 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1986 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 424 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 S 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 S. 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 S (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Ka. (175 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Ka | 1986 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | S |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1986 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 182 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1340 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2950 mm |
