1997 Ford Contour vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 10 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 (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. (141 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 221 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz C. 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, both vehicles can yield 220 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1997 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 2007 Mercedes-Benz C has manual transmission. 2007 Mercedes-Benz C will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 2007 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Contour | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 1535 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1470 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
