2009 Mercedes-Benz C vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,148 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz C is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (125 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. (121 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz C weights approximately 263 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour.
Because 2009 Mercedes-Benz C 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 2009 Mercedes-Benz C. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2009 Mercedes-Benz C (270 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mercedes-Benz C will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mercedes-Benz C | 1997 Ford Contour | |
Make | Mercedes-Benz | Ford |
Model | C | Contour |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2148 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 121 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1600 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 84.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88.3 mm | 88 mm |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2720 mm | 2710 mm |