1997 Ford Contour vs. 2011 Mercedes-Benz C
To start off, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 14 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (203 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour.
Because 2011 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 2011 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, 2011 Mercedes-Benz C (500 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2011 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 | 2011 Mercedes-Benz C | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Contour | C |
Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2143 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 203 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 500 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4606 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1459 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |