2007 Ford Ka vs. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2007 Ford Ka is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1978 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (157 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2007 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2007 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1978 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 648 kg more than 2007 Ford Ka. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1978 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1978 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 1978 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Ford Ka. (99 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1978 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Ford Ka | 1978 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | S |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1978 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1299 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 59 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 99 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 962 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1880 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2870 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 85 L |
