1997 Ford Contour vs. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is newer by 13 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), 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (228 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour.
Because 2010 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 2010 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, 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL (300 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL 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. 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 2010 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Contour | SL |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4582 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1298 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 80 L |
