1998 Ford Contour vs. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 5,513 cc (12 cylinders), 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (510 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 375 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL weights approximately 803 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL. 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, 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL (830 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 650 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL 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 SL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Contour | 2007 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Contour | SL |
Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 5513 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 510 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 830 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 2045 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4540 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1300 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2570 mm |