2002 Ford Focus vs. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230
To start off, 2002 Ford Focus is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 (134 HP) has 6 more horse power than 2002 Ford Focus. (128 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 weights approximately 213 kg more than 2002 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 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 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2002 Ford Focus (325 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. (205 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Focus | 1985 Mercedes-Benz 230 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | 230 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1985 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 2299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 134 HP |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 205 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 80.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 72 L |
