1994 Ford Contour vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Ford Contour would be higher. At 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 146 more horse power than 1994 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1994 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 753 kg more than 1994 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1994 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML (391 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 211 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Ford Contour | 1998 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Contour | ML |
| Year Released | 1994 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 4266 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 391 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.9 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1995 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2850 mm |
