Should I rent a Ford Focus or Mercedes A-Class in Scotland?

Advice Needed
1

Hi everyone,

I’m a tourist from the US, heading to Edinburgh in a week, and I’m trying to decide between renting a Ford Focus for £280 or a Mercedes A180D for £500. Both are manual transmissions, and I’m looking for the car that’s more fun to drive. I’ll be driving all over Scotland, including the Isle of Skye and Inverness, with my wife and four large suitcases. I’m fine putting some luggage in the backseat if needed.

I’m more into fun driving and handling than power or comfort. For reference, I drive a manual Mazda 3 MPS back home and love hatchbacks. Is the Mercedes worth the extra cost, or should I stick with the Ford? If you have other suggestions within my budget, feel free to share.

2

Both are decent options, but I don’t think the Mercedes is worth almost double the price of the Focus. If you’re set on manual, the Focus might be a better choice since it’s known for good handling. Keep in mind that four large suitcases might be tight in either car unless you fold down the back seats.

3

@Kai
Yeah, I was planning on folding the seats for extra space. I drove a Mercedes once before (automatic) and liked it, but I’m trying to decide if it’s worth the extra cost or if I should save that money for something else on the trip.

4

@Bell
If it’s just the two of you, folding the seats in the Focus will give you plenty of room for luggage.

5

@Bell
The driving experience will depend more on the engine. Scottish roads are full of corners, hills, and passing places, so having a bit of power helps. Handling-wise, there’s probably not much difference. Just be aware that you might not get the exact model you booked—it’s often a category rather than a specific car.

6

Do they guarantee the car? In my experience, rental companies rarely give you the exact car you book—it’s usually a similar model instead.

7

Kit said:
Do they guarantee the car? In my experience, rental companies rarely give you the exact car you book—it’s usually a similar model instead.

The Mercedes would be guaranteed through Turo, but the Ford isn’t.

8

@Bell
Turo in the UK can be hit or miss compared to the US. If you’re in Edinburgh, try the Avis in the city. Reserve a Golf—it’s probably the most fun manual you’ll find at a rental agency. Arrive early, and you might get lucky with an upgrade.

9

@Breck
Thanks! I think I’ll go with Avis based on this suggestion. I’ll definitely ask about any interesting upgrades when I pick it up.

10

I’d go with the Focus. The handling and ride quality are generally better than the A-Class, unless the Mercedes is a higher spec. Plus, the price difference isn’t worth it for the A-Class.

11

The Focus is the better value for money. The A180D is an entry-level Mercedes, so you’re mostly paying for the badge.

12

Whatever you choose, rent a car from the airport area rather than the city center. Driving in central Edinburgh can be a nightmare, especially if it’s your first time driving on the left side of the road. Also, if you’re carrying four suitcases, you might want to consider something larger.

13

@Bennet
I’ve driven in Japan before, so I’m somewhat used to driving on the left. As for the luggage, I plan to fold the seats to make everything fit.

14

The Focus is probably the smarter choice. The Mercedes might feel a bit more refined, but for double the cost, it’s not worth it.

15

The Focus is a better drive in my opinion, and the A-Class is mostly about the badge. Use the money you save for a nice dinner or something else fun on your trip.

16

Why rent a car in Edinburgh? The city is very walkable and has great public transport. If you’re planning to drive to places like the Isle of Skye, it makes sense, but otherwise, you won’t need a car in the city itself.

17

@Sterling
I’m starting in Edinburgh but will be driving around Scotland after that, including the Isle of Skye and Inverness.

18

If you’re used to driving manual, go for the Focus. If you’re not confident with manuals, this might not be the best time to learn, especially on Scotland’s winding rural roads.

19

Luca said:
If you’re used to driving manual, go for the Focus. If you’re not confident with manuals, this might not be the best time to learn, especially on Scotland’s winding rural roads.

I’m comfortable with manual—I drive a Mazda 3 MPS at home. Thanks for the heads-up, though!

20

Check out Skoda Superbs if they’re available. They’re spacious and great for road trips. The Mercedes A180D isn’t worth the premium price for an entry-level model.