1997 Ford Contour vs. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2,798 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL (204 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 420 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 SL 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 SL. 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 SL (270 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 1998 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Contour | SL |
Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2798 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 204 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 270 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.1:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1810 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |