1993 Ford Contour vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Ford Contour would be higher. At 5,441 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (494 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 326 more horse power than 1993 Ford Contour. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1993 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 637 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 2004 Mercedes-Benz S 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 S. 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz S (700 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 480 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Ford Contour. (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Ford Contour | 2004 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Contour | S |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 5441 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 494 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1313 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5170 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3090 mm |
