1996 Ford Contour vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 13 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (268 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 139 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 84 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 2009 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz E (350 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Contour | 2009 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Contour | E |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 268 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 92.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1326 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1490 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1830 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |