1997 Ford Contour vs. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK
To start off, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK 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 1,987 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (167 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK weights approximately 423 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 2004 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 2004 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, 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK (245 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 2004 Mercedes-Benz CLK | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Contour | CLK |
Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1987 cc | 1795 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1665 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |