1996 Ford Contour vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (148 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 343 kg more than 1996 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Contour | 2007 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Contour | C |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1585 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
