1996 Ford Contour vs. 1990 Mercury Capri
To start off, 1996 Ford Contour is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Mercury Capri. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Mercury Capri would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Contour (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1990 Mercury Capri. (100 HP @ 5750 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1990 Mercury Capri. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Contour weights approximately 162 kg more than 1990 Mercury Capri. 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, 1996 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 Mercury Capri. (130 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 Mercury Capri.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Contour | 1990 Mercury Capri | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Contour | Capri |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1990 |
| 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 | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 130 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1650 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1290 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |
