2004 Ford Focus vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C

To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (212 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. (201 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2012 Mercedes-Benz C.

Because 2012 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, both vehicles can yield 310 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Ford Focus 2012 Mercedes-Benz C
Make Ford Mercedes-Benz
Model Focus C
Year Released 2004 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1983 cc 1796 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 212 HP 201 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 310 Nm 310 Nm
Torque RPM 3500 RPM 2200 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 7-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Length 4190 mm 4606 mm
Vehicle Width 1780 mm 1770 mm
Vehicle Height 1470 mm 1459 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2760 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 66 L