1993 Ford Contour vs. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380
To start off, 1993 Ford Contour is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 would be higher. At 3,818 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (215 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1993 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 should accelerate faster than 1993 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 weights approximately 354 kg more than 1993 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 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 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 Ford Contour, 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, 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 (305 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1993 Ford Contour | 1979 Mercedes-Benz 380 | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Contour | 380 |
Year Released | 1993 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1988 cc | 3818 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 215 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 305 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 92 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 71.8 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1596 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5000 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2940 mm |