2005 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2005 Ford Focus is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,753 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Focus (118 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (88 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Focus weights approximately 128 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Focus. (160 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Focus | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | A |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.6 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 19.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 198 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 10.6 seconds | 12.1 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1223 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
