1997 Mercedes-Benz S vs. 2011 Ford Focus
To start off, 2011 Ford Focus is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2011 Ford Focus. (140 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2011 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 700 kg more than 2011 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 86 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Ford Focus. (184 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | 2011 Ford Focus | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | S | Focus |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2799 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 140 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 270 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1190 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4445 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1722 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1488 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2614 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 51 L |
