2004 Ford Ka vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 4 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 2,985 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (221 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 127 more horse power than 2004 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 5650 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 625 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK (510 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 375 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Ka | 2008 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | CLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 2985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5650 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.1 seconds | 8.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1730 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 7.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 62 L |
