2003 Ford Ka vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 would be higher. At 2,398 cc (4 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 (72 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 weights approximately 603 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 (137 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 38 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (99 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1978 Mercedes-Benz 240 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | 240 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1978 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2398 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 72 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 137 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1565 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 5360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 3430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 65 L |
