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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Ford Focus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1998 Mercedes-Benz A. (59 HP @ 3600 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. 1998 Mercedes-Benz A weights approximately 154 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz A (160 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (132 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus.
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 | 1999 cc | 1689 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 59 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 160 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 3580 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1590 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2430 mm |
