2005 Ford Focus vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2005 Ford Focus is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (342 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 130 more horse power than 2005 Ford Focus. (212 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 295 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 1998 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz C (511 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 201 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Focus. (310 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Focus. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C 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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Focus | 1998 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | C |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 310 Nm | 511 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 92 mm |
| Top Speed | 232 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 6.7 seconds | 5.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1570 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4190 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
