2001 Ford Focus vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Focus would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (141 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2001 Ford Focus. (108 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 320 kg more than 2001 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz C (315 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Focus. (169 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Focus | 2003 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | C |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 88.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 69 L |
