2001 Mercedes-Benz A vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A is newer by 3 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. (95 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2001 Mercedes-Benz A. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 137 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, 2001 Mercedes-Benz A (186 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 1998 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 2001 Mercedes-Benz A has manual transmission. 2001 Mercedes-Benz A will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mercedes-Benz A | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
| Model | A | Contour |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1689 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 95 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 186 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3610 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1580 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2710 mm |
