1997 Ford Contour vs. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 21 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 3,005 cc (5 cylinders), 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (80 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 131 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour.
Because 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 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 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Ford Contour (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. (171 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300. 1997 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 has manual transmission. 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 1976 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Contour | 300 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1976 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 3005 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 80 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 171 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2400 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 1445 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4730 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1790 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |