2009 Ford Focus vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mercedes-Benz A would be higher. At 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz A is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (134 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 396 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 1998 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | A |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 134 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1491 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2430 mm |
