1998 Ford Focus vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 12 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (518 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 384 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 1586 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 2010 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 2010 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (631 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 461 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Focus | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Focus | SL |
Year Released | 1998 | 2010 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1797 cc | 6208 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 134 HP | 518 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
Torque | 170 Nm | 631 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 19.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 2830 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 |