1996 Ford Contour vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 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 2,260 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 308 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.
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, 2009 Mazda 3 (203 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Contour | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Contour | 3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2260 cc |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 154 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 203 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 94 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4550 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |