2002 Ford Focus vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2002 Ford Focus is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,798 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2002 Ford Focus. (129 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 480 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 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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 (330 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL.
Compare all specifications:
2002 Ford Focus | 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Focus | SL |
Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 330 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 73.5 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |