2005 Ford Focus vs. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2005 Ford Focus is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (161 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2005 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 46 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK. 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, 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK (234 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Focus. (178 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Focus. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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. 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Focus | 2003 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | SLK |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1987 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 178 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2670 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
