2004 Ford Focus vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (130 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 693 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 2003 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 2003 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz S (400 Nm) has 217 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (183 Nm). This means 2003 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 | 2003 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | S |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 89.9 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 | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1182 kg | 1875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 5050 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 3090 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.3 L/100km | 10.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 88 L |
