2003 Ford Ka vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Ka (69 HP) has 10 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 158 kg more than 2003 Ford Ka.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | A |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 59 HP |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 153 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.1 seconds | 17.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 4.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 54 L |
