2008 Ford Ka vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Ford Ka. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ford Ka would be higher. At 5,500 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 723 kg more than 2008 Ford Ka.
Because 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK (540 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 434 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Ka. (106 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Ka | 2013 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Ka | SLK |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Roadster |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 5500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 8 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 409 HP |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 540 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74.1 mm | 98 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 12.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 13.7 seconds | 4.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 4-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 887 kg | 1610 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4146 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 2006 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2430 mm |
