2008 Ford Focus vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Ford Focus is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 5,513 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (493 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 403 more horse power than 2008 Ford Focus. (90 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 597 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 2004 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 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL (700 Nm) has 485 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Focus. (215 Nm). This means 2004 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 | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | SL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 5513 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 493 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1362 kg | 1959 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2570 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 53 L | 91 L |
