1996 Mercedes-Benz E vs. 2006 Ford Focus

To start off, 2006 Ford Focus is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,973 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (343 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 2006 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 410 kg more than 2006 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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 E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (480 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 302 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Focus. (178 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Focus.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Mercedes-Benz E 2006 Ford Focus
Make Mercedes-Benz Ford
Model E Focus
Year Released 1996 2006
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4973 cc 1988 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 343 HP 129 HP
Engine RPM 5750 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 480 Nm 178 Nm
Torque RPM 3750 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 96.5 mm 84.8 mm
Engine Stroke Size 85 mm 88 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 11.0:1 10.0:1
Top Speed 249 km/hour 201 km/hour
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1676 kg 1266 kg
Vehicle Length 4800 mm 4470 mm
Vehicle Width 1810 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1420 mm 1540 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 2620 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 9.9 L/100km 8.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 80 L 55 L