1997 Ford Contour vs. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL
To start off, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is newer by 15 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (210 HP @ 3400 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL weights approximately 1186 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 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL 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, 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL (542 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 322 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 2012 Mercedes-Benz GL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Contour | GL |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 3000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 168 HP | 210 HP |
Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 3400 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 542 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 1600 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | AWD |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 7-speed shiftable automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 2500 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5098 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1989 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1839 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3076 mm |