2008 Ford Focus vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E
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 E. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz E would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (171 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 702 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 E 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 E. 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 E (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 204 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (196 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E 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. 1996 Mercedes-Benz E will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Focus | 1996 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | E |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1986 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 400 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 216 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 8.3 seconds | 6.6 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 2052 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
