1991 Mercedes-Benz SL vs. 2004 Ford Focus
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,961 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 424 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus, 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL (272 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (178 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus. 2004 Ford Focus has automatic transmission and 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL has manual transmission. 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Focus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Mercedes-Benz SL | 2004 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | SL | Focus |
| Year Released | 1991 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2961 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 272 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88.5 mm | 84.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 80.3 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1690 kg | 1266 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4470 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1540 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
