1997 Ford Contour vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 7 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 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (90 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 165 kg more than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1997 Ford Contour (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A. (140 Nm @ 1600 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mercedes-Benz A.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 2004 Mercedes-Benz A | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Contour | A |
Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1498 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 90 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1225 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 3840 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1600 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |