1997 Ford Contour vs. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 600
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Mercedes-Benz 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Mercedes-Benz 600 would be higher. At 5,987 cc (12 cylinders), 1991 Mercedes-Benz 600 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 600 (408 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 240 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 600 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Mercedes-Benz 600 weights approximately 916 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Mercedes-Benz 600 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 1991 Mercedes-Benz 600. 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, 1991 Mercedes-Benz 600 (580 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 360 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1991 Mercedes-Benz 600 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 1991 Mercedes-Benz 600 | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Contour | 600 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1991 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 5987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 408 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 580 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 2230 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1890 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3150 mm |
