1998 Ford Contour vs. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E
To start off, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Contour would be higher. At 4,966 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Mercedes-Benz E is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (302 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mercedes-Benz E weights approximately 508 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E 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 2006 Mercedes-Benz E. 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, 2006 Mercedes-Benz E (461 Nm @ 2700 RPM) has 237 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2006 Mercedes-Benz E will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2006 Mercedes-Benz E | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Contour | E |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 4966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 302 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 2700 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 97 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1919 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
