1998 Ford Contour vs. 1984 Mercedes-Benz S
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Mercedes-Benz S would be higher. At 2,744 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Mercedes-Benz S is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S (154 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Mercedes-Benz S weights approximately 318 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1984 Mercedes-Benz S 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 1984 Mercedes-Benz S. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1984 Mercedes-Benz S (223 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 43 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1984 Mercedes-Benz S will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 1984 Mercedes-Benz S | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Contour | S |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1984 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2744 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 223 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1560 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5030 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2950 mm |
