1997 Ford Contour vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,980 cc (12 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL (661 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 493 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 51 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 SL 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 SL. 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 SL (1,000 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 780 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Contour | SL |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 5980 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 661 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5400 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 1000 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 2200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 1365 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5210 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1830 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |