1997 Ford Contour vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 11 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 48 more horse power than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. (120 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 286 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour.
Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2008 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (271 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 51 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 2008 Mercedes-Benz E | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Contour | E |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2148 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 1600 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4820 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |