2008 Ford Ka vs. 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190
To start off, 2008 Ford Ka is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Ka (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190. (88 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Ka should accelerate faster than 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Ka weights approximately 50 kg more than 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 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 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Ka. (135 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Ka | 1983 Mercedes-Benz 190 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | 190 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1983 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.1 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 173 km/hour | 175 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1086 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.1 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 55 L |
