2009 Ford Focus vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK
To start off, 2009 Ford Focus is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 87 more horse power than 2009 Ford Focus. (141 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK weights approximately 480 kg more than 2009 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 168 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Focus. (132 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Focus.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Focus | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SLK | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | SLK |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 132 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 82.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1446 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2740 mm | 2440 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 6.7 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
