1996 Ford Contour vs. 2008 Suzuki Alto
To start off, 2008 Suzuki Alto is newer by 12 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 67 more horse power than 2008 Suzuki Alto. (62 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2008 Suzuki Alto. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Contour weights approximately 367 kg more than 2008 Suzuki Alto. 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 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Suzuki Alto. (85 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Suzuki Alto.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Contour | 2008 Suzuki Alto | |
| Make | Ford | Suzuki |
| Model | Contour | Alto |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1061 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 62 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 85 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 68.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 72 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 875 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 3500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2370 mm |
