1998 Ford Focus vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 7 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 2,597 cc (5 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 535 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK (400 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2005 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | CLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 2597 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 230 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.6 seconds | 9.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1650 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4630 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
