1996 Ford Contour vs. 1997 Vector M12
To start off, 1997 Vector M12 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Contour would be higher. At 5,707 cc (12 cylinders), 1997 Vector M12 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Vector M12 (484 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 355 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Vector M12 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Vector M12 weights approximately 388 kg more than 1996 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Vector M12 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 1997 Vector M12. 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, 1997 Vector M12 (576 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 396 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Vector M12 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Contour | 1997 Vector M12 | |
| Make | Ford | Vector |
| Model | Contour | M12 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 5707 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 12 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 484 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 576 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1630 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2030 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1140 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2750 mm |
