2008 Ford Focus vs. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 56 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 408 kg more than 2008 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Ford Focus (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL. (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL has automatic transmission and 2008 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2008 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1995 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1995 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 2799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 73.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 203 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 9.8 seconds | 9.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1422 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1310 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 80 L |
