1997 Ford Contour vs. 1996 Proton 400
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Proton 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Proton 400 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 (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1996 Proton 400. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1996 Proton 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 420 kg more than 1996 Proton 400. 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 (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 123 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Proton 400. (108 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Proton 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 1996 Proton 400 | |
| Make | Ford | Proton |
| Model | Contour | 400 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1299 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 108 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
