1996 Ford Contour vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf is newer by 15 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2011 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 41 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 104 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, 2011 Volkswagen Golf (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Contour | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Contour | Golf |
Year Released | 1996 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 170 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 240 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1346 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4201 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1481 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2578 mm |