2004 Ford Focus vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,997 cc (5 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (144 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (87 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 263 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. 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, 2004 Ford Focus (202 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300. (172 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | 300 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1979 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 87 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 202 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 90.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 92.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 21.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1182 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 65 L |
