2000 Ford Contour vs. 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL
To start off, 2000 Ford Contour is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL would be higher. At 2,778 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Ford Contour (201 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. (168 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Ford Contour weights approximately 58 kg more than 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 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 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL (240 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Ford Contour. (230 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
2000 Ford Contour | 1971 Mercedes-Benz SL | |
Make | Ford | Mercedes-Benz |
Model | Contour | SL |
Year Released | 2000 | 1971 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2778 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 201 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5750 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1418 kg | 1360 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1310 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2410 mm |