2004 Ford Focus vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,991 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (131 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (120 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 225 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. 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 (175 Nm) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. (170 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz C.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | C |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 85.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 62 L |
