1998 Ford Focus vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 8 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 2,987 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (187 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (131 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 663 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (400 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 226 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (174 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | E |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 2987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 187 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 1400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.4:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 184 km/hour | 231 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 12.8 seconds | 9.4 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1192 kg | 1855 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4860 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 70 L |
