1998 Ford Focus vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 (302 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 173 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 weights approximately 560 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 E500 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 E500. 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 E500 (441 Nm) has 263 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (178 Nm). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz E500 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 E500 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | E500 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 441 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.6 mm | 97.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1169 kg | 1729 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
