1997 Ford Contour vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Contour would be higher. At 3,199 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (221 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 492 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1998 Mercedes-Benz S. 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, 1998 Mercedes-Benz S (315 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 1998 Mercedes-Benz S | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Contour | S |
Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 3199 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 221 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 315 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 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 | 1806 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5160 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1860 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2830 mm |