1997 Ford Contour vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R 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 2,987 cc, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R (221 HP @ 3800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 908 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 R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. 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 R (510 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 279 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 2009 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Contour | R |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2987 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 221 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 510 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 17.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 2298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5180 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1930 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
