2006 Ford Focus vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2006 Ford Focus is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (349 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 215 more horse power than 2006 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 39 kg more than 2006 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK (450 Nm) has 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Focus. (320 Nm). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Focus | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | SLK |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3199 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 349 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 5.2 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1461 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 62 L |
