2004 Ford Ka vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Ford Ka is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2004 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 391 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 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz C (171 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Ka | 1997 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | C |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 171 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 85.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1019 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 62 L |
