1998 Ford Focus vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 10 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 1,795 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 272 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus.
Because 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (240 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (170 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | SLK |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1795 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 231 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 11.3 seconds | 8.2 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 | 1118 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4100 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
