2003 Ford Ka vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 424 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 334 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 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 495 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Ka | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Ka | SL |
Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1597 cc | 6208 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 94 HP | 518 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 630 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 102.3 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 94.6 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 906 kg | 1240 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1480 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |