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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 408 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 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 (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 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 | 1987 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1650 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 |
