1996 Ford Crown Victoria vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Crown Victoria. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Crown Victoria would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Ford Crown Victoria is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Crown Victoria (179 HP) has 11 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (168 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Crown Victoria should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Crown Victoria weights approximately 516 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Ford Crown Victoria is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1996 Ford Crown Victoria. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Crown Victoria | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Crown Victoria | Contour |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4600 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 179 HP | 168 HP |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5400 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1980 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2710 mm |
