2004 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S
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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 611 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 1997 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 1997 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (178 Nm @ 4150 RPM). This means 1997 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 | 1997 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4150 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1279 kg | 1890 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
