2005 Ford Focus vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Ford Focus would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (311 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 203 more horse power than 2005 Ford Focus. (108 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Focus.
Because 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL (360 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 191 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Focus. (169 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Focus. 2011 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. 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Focus | 2011 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | SL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 169 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
