2004 Ford Focus vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (302 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 174 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 622 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 1999 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 1999 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz S (460 Nm) has 285 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (175 Nm). This means 1999 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 | 1999 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1232 kg | 1854 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 88 L |
