2009 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S

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 S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,799 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (190 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (113 HP @ 3800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 579 kg more than 2009 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 S 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 S. 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, 1997 Mercedes-Benz S (270 Nm @ 3750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (250 Nm @ 1850 RPM). This means 1997 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus.

Compare all specifications:

2009 Ford Focus 1997 Mercedes-Benz S
Make Ford Mercedes-Benz
Model Focus S
Year Released 2009 1997
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1751 cc 2799 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Valves per Cylinder 2 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 113 HP 190 HP
Engine RPM 3800 RPM 5500 RPM
Torque 250 Nm 270 Nm
Torque RPM 1850 RPM 3750 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 19.0:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1311 kg 1890 kg
Vehicle Length 4460 mm 5120 mm
Vehicle Width 1710 mm 1890 mm
Vehicle Height 1540 mm 1490 mm
Wheelbase Size 2620 mm 2410 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 70 L