2009 Ford Focus vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Focus (222 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (215 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 23 kg more than 2009 Ford Focus.
Because 2004 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 2004 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 (320 Nm) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK. (311 Nm). This means 2009 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 2004 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | SLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2004 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2522 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 5 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 222 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93.2 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4020 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2410 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.5 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
