2003 Ford Ka vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Ka would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (108 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 383 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.
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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz A (250 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 144 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 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 | 2008 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | A |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1991 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 69 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 167 km/hour | 181 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.1 seconds | 10.8 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 | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6 L/100km | 5.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 60 L |
