2005 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2011 Ford Ka
To start off, 2011 Ford Ka is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 234 more horse power than 2011 Ford Ka. (68 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2011 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 957 kg more than 2011 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (470 Nm) has 364 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Ford Ka. (106 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2011 Ford Ka | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | SL | Ka |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4966 cc | 1297 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 302 HP | 68 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 470 Nm | 106 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 74 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1844 kg | 887 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 3630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.1 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 40 L |
