1998 Ford Contour vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML is newer by 11 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), 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML (503 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 308 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML weights approximately 905 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML (630 Nm @ 520 RPM) has 406 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML 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. 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2009 Mercedes-Benz ML | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Contour | ML |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| 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 | 630 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 520 RPM |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 250 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 2316 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 95 L |
