2003 Ford Ka vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK
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 SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK (215 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 368 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 SLK 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 SLK. 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 SLK (316 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka. 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Ka | 1999 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | SLK |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 316 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
