1998 Ford Focus vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is newer by 13 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 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (201 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 385 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 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (183 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus. 2011 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Focus | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Focus | SLK |
Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 183 Nm | 310 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 243 km/hour |
Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.6 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1115 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4135 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1816 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2431 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |