1993 Ford Contour vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 15 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (604 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 436 more horse power than 1993 Ford Contour. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1993 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL (1,001 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 781 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Ford Contour. (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Ford Contour | 2008 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Contour | SL |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 5980 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 604 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 1001 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1313 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1300 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
