1997 Ford Contour vs. 2005 Mercedes-Benz G
To start off, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G is newer by 8 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 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercedes-Benz G is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G (292 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercedes-Benz G weights approximately 841 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 2005 Mercedes-Benz G is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Mercedes-Benz G (456 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 236 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2005 Mercedes-Benz G will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 2005 Mercedes-Benz G | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Contour | G |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 292 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 456 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 2155 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1950 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
