1997 Ford Contour vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 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 @ 6700 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (148 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 150 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour.
Because 2009 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 2009 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 2009 Mercedes-Benz C | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Contour | C |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2148 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 340 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4350 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
