2004 Ford Ka vs. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450
To start off, 2004 Ford Ka is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 would be higher. At 4,519 cc (8 cylinders), 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 (217 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 123 more horse power than 2004 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 weights approximately 525 kg more than 2004 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 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 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450. 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, 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 (359 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 224 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Ka. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Ka | 1972 Mercedes-Benz 450 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | 450 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1972 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 4519 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 359 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.1 seconds | 9.3 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2820 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 90 L |
