1998 Ford Focus vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz B
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B is newer by 11 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz B is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B (138 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz B weights approximately 320 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz B (300 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz B will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2009 Mercedes-Benz B | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | B |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 200 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.6 seconds | 9.7 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1435 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2780 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
