2003 Ford Ka vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (201 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2003 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 440 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 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 2012 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 175 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Ka. 2012 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Ka | 2012 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Ka | SLK |
Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1594 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 94 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 135 Nm | 310 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4135 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1816 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2431 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 60 L |