1997 Ford Contour vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano is newer by 9 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) has 92 more horse power than 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano. (108 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano weights approximately 650 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour.
Because 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 39 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 2006 Mercedes-Benz Viano | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Contour | Viano |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2146 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 108 HP |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 2040 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1880 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3210 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 75 L |
