1996 Ford Contour vs. 2012 Honda Pilot
To start off, 2012 Honda Pilot is newer by 16 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Honda Pilot is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Honda Pilot (250 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 121 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Honda Pilot should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Honda Pilot weights approximately 733 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, 2012 Honda Pilot (343 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Honda Pilot will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Contour | 2012 Honda Pilot | |
| Make | Ford | Honda |
| Model | Contour | Pilot |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 343 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1975 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4862 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1994 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1847 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2774 mm |
