1996 Ford Contour vs. 2005 Ford Freestyle
To start off, 2005 Ford Freestyle is newer by 9 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 2,982 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Freestyle is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Ford Freestyle (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Ford Freestyle should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Freestyle weights approximately 623 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 2005 Ford Freestyle is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Ford Freestyle will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Ford Freestyle (281 Nm) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm). This means 2005 Ford Freestyle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Contour | 2005 Ford Freestyle | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Contour | Freestyle |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1865 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5080 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |
