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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (201 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 140 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 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 (245 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 14 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 | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2496 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 201 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 2900 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.2:1 |
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 | 1390 kg | 1530 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4530 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |