1995 Ford Contour vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Ford Contour would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Ford Contour (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Ford Contour weights approximately 57 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. 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, 1995 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1995 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Ford Contour | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Contour | 3 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
