1998 Ford Focus vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 14 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), 1998 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Focus (135 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (114 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 196 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus.
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, 1998 Ford Focus (162 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A. (155 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2012 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | A |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1795 cc | 1697 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 185 km/hour | 188 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.3 seconds | 10.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1129 kg | 1325 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 3840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
