1993 Ford Focus vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 1993 Ford Focus is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,745 cc (6 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1993 Ford Focus (227 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (185 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1993 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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, 1993 Ford Focus (305 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1993 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 has automatic transmission and 1993 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 1993 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Ford Focus | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | 280 |
| Year Released | 1993 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1994 cc | 2745 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4140 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1440 mm |
