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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Ford Focus weights approximately 357 kg more than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A.
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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2009 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 1596 cc | 1997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.4 mm | 85.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1452 kg | 1095 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2430 mm |
