2005 Ford Ka vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Ford Ka is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,689 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 76 kg more than 2005 Ford Ka.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 A (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 45 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Ka. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2005 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 2005 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Ka | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | A |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 174 km/hour | 173 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10 seconds | 13.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1019 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 54 L |
