1994 Ford Contour vs. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 8 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 3,224 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (201 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 72 more horse power than 1994 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1994 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 493 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2002 Mercedes-Benz E. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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, 2002 Mercedes-Benz E (479 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 299 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Ford Contour | 2002 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Contour | E |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3224 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 479 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 88.3 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1735 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
