1997 Ford Contour vs. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK is newer by 2 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 4,266 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK (275 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 241 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK. 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, 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK (400 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 1999 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Contour | CLK |
Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 4266 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 275 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 400 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 1555 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4570 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |