2003 Ford Ka vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 9 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 1,800 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (69 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 543 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C (310 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Ka | 2012 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Ka | C |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1800 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 69 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 106 Nm | 310 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1505 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4592 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2760 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 66 L |