2004 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,687 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (123 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 180 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (170 Nm). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | A |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1387 cc | 1687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 164 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 14.1 seconds | 12.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 54 L |
