2009 Ford Focus vs. 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK (134 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (89 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 41 kg more than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Because 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK 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 SLK. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Ford Focus (215 Nm @ 1850 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (190 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1996 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | SLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1850 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78.7 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1311 kg | 1270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1280 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |
