2005 Ford Ka vs. 1973 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2005 Ford Ka is newer by 32 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 1,988 cc (4 cylinders), 1973 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 94 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1973 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 196 kg more than 2005 Ford Ka.
Because 1973 Mercedes-Benz E 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 1973 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1973 Mercedes-Benz E (159 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1973 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Ka | 1973 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | E |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1973 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 159 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 65 L |
