1998 Ford Focus vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (135 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 161 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (162 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Focus | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Focus | SLK |
Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 162 Nm | 234 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1290 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |