2001 Ford Focus vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 7 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 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (511 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 383 more horse power than 2001 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 710 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 2008 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (720 Nm) has 334 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Focus. (386 Nm). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Focus. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2001 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2001 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Focus | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | SL |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 511 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 386 Nm | 720 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2570 mm |
