2004 Ford Ka vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2004 Ford Ka is newer by 33 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 94 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 311 kg more than 2004 Ford Ka.
Because 1971 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz E (159 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Ka | 1971 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | E |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 87.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1019 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2760 mm |
