1996 Ford Contour vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 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 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 30 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (99 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Contour weights approximately 156 kg more than 2004 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, 1996 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Contour | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Contour | 3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 99 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 145 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 78 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83.6 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1086 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |