2005 Ford Focus vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK
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 CLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK (216 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 2005 Ford Focus. (130 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Focus weights approximately 10 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 CLK. 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 CLK (311 Nm) has 137 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Focus. (174 Nm). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Focus | 1998 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | CLK |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 216 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1265 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 70 L |
