2008 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 4,971 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (315 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 236 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (79 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 619 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 1997 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 1997 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL (468 Nm @ 3900 RPM) has 344 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Ford Focus | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Focus | SL |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1387 cc | 4971 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 79 HP | 315 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 124 Nm | 468 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 96.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 85 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 171 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1150 kg | 1769 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |