1989 Ford Fiesta vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Fiesta 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 (135 HP) has 60 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (75 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 427 kg more than 1989 Ford Fiesta. 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, 1998 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1989 Ford Fiesta | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta | Contour |
| Year Released | 1989 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1391 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 75 HP | 135 HP |
| Torque | 111 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 815 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3750 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |
