2005 Ford Focus vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2005 Ford Focus is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (376 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 258 more horse power than 2005 Ford Focus. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 577 kg more than 2005 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL (580 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 420 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Focus. (160 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Focus. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2005 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2005 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Ford Focus | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Focus | SL |
Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1753 cc | 5987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 376 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 160 Nm | 580 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 3750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1223 kg | 1800 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4470 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |