2004 Ford Ka vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2004 Ford Ka is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 2004 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 848 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Ka. (99 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Ka. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Ford Ka | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Ka | SL |
Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1297 cc | 2799 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 99 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 73.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.4 seconds | 9.8 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |