1997 Ford Contour vs. 1988 Plymouth Horizon
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Plymouth Horizon. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Plymouth Horizon would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 1988 Plymouth Horizon. (91 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1988 Plymouth Horizon. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 289 kg more than 1988 Plymouth Horizon. 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, 1997 Ford Contour (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Plymouth Horizon. (165 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Plymouth Horizon.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 1988 Plymouth Horizon | |
| Make | Ford | Plymouth |
| Model | Contour | Horizon |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2213 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 91 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 1025 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4190 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2530 mm |
