1998 Ford Focus vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (361 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 227 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 297 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 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 2005 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK (500 Nm) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (170 Nm). This means 2005 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 | 2005 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Focus | SLK |
Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1797 cc | 5439 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 361 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 500 Nm |
Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 97.1 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.4:1 | 11.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1541 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2440 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |