2009 Ford Focus vs. 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK
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 SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (171 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 80 kg more than 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 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 (197 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 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 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Ford Focus | 1997 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Focus | SLK |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1988 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 171 HP | 134 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 197 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 89.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 78.7 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | 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 | 1350 kg | 1270 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1280 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2410 mm |