2009 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (101 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 20 kg more than 2009 Ford Focus.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 (320 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A. (150 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1997 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 150 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1000 kg | 1020 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1580 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2430 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
