2004 Ford Ka vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Ka would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (400 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 341 more horse power than 2004 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 998 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 2007 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK (706 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 607 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Ka. (99 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Ka. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Ka | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | SLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 400 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 706 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 15.4 seconds | 4.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 13.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 80 L |
