2003 Ford Ka vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2003 Ford Ka is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (73 HP @ 6150 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 685 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 290 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (110 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | CLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1294 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 73 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6150 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 110 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 83.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.1 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 870 kg | 1555 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 42 L | 62 L |
