1998 Ford Contour vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz R
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 9 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 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz R (503 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 308 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour.
Because 2007 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz R 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz R (632 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 408 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2007 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2007 Mercedes-Benz R | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Contour | R |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 6208 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 503 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 632 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 102.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 94.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3220 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
