2004 Ford Focus vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 69 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (183 Nm). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 2002 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | SLK |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1221 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 70 L |
