1993 Ford Contour vs. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 20 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (423 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 294 more horse power than 1993 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1993 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1203 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 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1993 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL (700 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 520 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1993 Ford Contour | 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Contour | GL |
| Year Released | 1993 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1988 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | electric |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 423 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 700 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 2445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2141 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3075 mm |
