2003 Ford Focus vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Focus would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 160 more horse power than 2003 Ford Focus. (108 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 975 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz R 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 R. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 181 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Focus. (169 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Focus. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 2003 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2003 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Focus | 2008 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | R |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 350 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.1 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1200 kg | 2175 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
