1998 Ford Focus vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1998 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 549 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Ford Focus. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (299 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 139 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Focus. (160 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Focus. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Focus | C |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 3000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 299 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1146 kg | 1695 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4592 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1445 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2761 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 66 L |
