2004 Ford Focus vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S
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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (175 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (131 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 775 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz S (330 Nm) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (175 Nm). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1996 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 131 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 330 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 1960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1490 mm |
