1999 Ford Contour vs. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Contour (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (100 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Contour weights approximately 322 kg more than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1999 Ford Contour (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A has automatic transmission and 1999 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1999 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Contour | 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | |
| Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Contour | A |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 151 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 3780 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1600 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 56 L | 54 L |
