1996 Ford Contour vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 4,663 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL (335 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1188 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 GL is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL (460 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz GL 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 GL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Contour | GL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 4663 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 335 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 460 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 92.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 2430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1850 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3080 mm |
