1997 Ford Contour vs. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. (188 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 weights approximately 155 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour.
Because 1986 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 1986 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, 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 (260 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 1986 Mercedes-Benz 300 | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Contour | 300 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1986 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2960 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 188 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 260 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1545 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5170 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2010 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3080 mm |