2004 Ford Focus vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 would be higher. At 2,746 cc (6 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 weights approximately 285 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 (233 Nm) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (170 Nm). This means 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 280 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | 280 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1976 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1387 cc | 2746 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 86.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.1 seconds | 10.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 90 L |
