2008 Ford Focus vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz C would be higher. At 1,797 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (120 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (113 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 168 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C 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 1996 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, 1996 Mercedes-Benz C (170 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (160 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1996 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | C |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1796 cc | 1797 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 113 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80.6 mm | 85.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
