1998 Ford Focus vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,982 cc (12 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (605 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 476 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 431 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 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 2006 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 823 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (178 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Focus | 2006 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Focus | SL |
Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1796 cc | 5982 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 605 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 178 Nm | 1001 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80.6 mm | 82.6 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.7 seconds | 4.2 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1169 kg | 1600 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |