1996 Ford Contour vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander weights approximately 353 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 Mitsubishi Outlander (226 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Contour | 2012 Mitsubishi Outlander | |
| Make | Ford | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Contour | Outlander |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1595 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4666 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1801 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2670 mm |
