2005 Ford Focus vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S

To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 7 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (295 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 2005 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 887 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz S (385 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Focus. (178 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Focus. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S 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. 2012 Mercedes-Benz S will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2005 Ford Focus 2012 Mercedes-Benz S
Make Ford Mercedes-Benz
Model Focus S
Year Released 2005 2012
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1997 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 128 HP 295 HP
Engine RPM 5500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 178 Nm 385 Nm
Torque RPM 4500 RPM 2400 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline - Premium Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual 7-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 3 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1213 kg 2100 kg
Vehicle Length 4300 mm 5245 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1872 mm
Vehicle Height 1490 mm 1473 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 3165 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 90 L