2003 Ford Focus vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2003 Ford Focus is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 2003 Ford Focus. (73 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 310 kg more than 2003 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 CLK 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 CLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK (185 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Focus. (125 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Focus | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Focus | CLK |
Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1387 cc | 1996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 73 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 125 Nm | 185 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 78.7 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1190 kg | 1500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 69 L |