2008 Ford Ka vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2008 Ford Ka is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 5,985 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 1293 kg more than 2008 Ford Ka.
Because 1996 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (570 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 464 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Ka. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 2008 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Ka | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | S |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1296 cc | 5985 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 389 HP |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 570 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 80.2 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 887 kg | 2180 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 40 L | 100 L |
