1998 Ford Focus vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 3,722 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL (247 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 119 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 637 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 SL 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 SL. 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 SL (350 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Focus | SL |
Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3722 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 128 HP | 247 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 97 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 7.2 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1118 kg | 1755 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |