1996 Ford Contour vs. 1988 TVR S2
To start off, 1996 Ford Contour is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 TVR S2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 TVR S2 would be higher. At 2,933 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 TVR S2 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 TVR S2 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 TVR S2 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Contour weights approximately 252 kg more than 1988 TVR S2.
Because 1988 TVR S2 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 1988 TVR S2. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1988 TVR S2 (233 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 53 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 TVR S2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Contour | 1988 TVR S2 | |
| Make | Ford | TVR |
| Model | Contour | S2 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2933 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 233 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 72 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 990 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1670 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1120 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2290 mm |
