2003 Ford Ka vs. 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,962 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL (231 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 728 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 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL (268 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1992 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | SL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1992 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2962 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 231 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6400 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 268 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 88.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1690 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |
