1996 Ford Contour vs. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan 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 2,000 cc, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan (168 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Sharan should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Sharan weights approximately 552 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 Volkswagen Sharan (350 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Sharan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Contour | 2012 Volkswagen Sharan | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Contour | Sharan |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 350 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1794 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4854 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1904 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1720 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2919 mm |