1997 Ford Contour vs. 1999 Saturn SC
To start off, 1999 Saturn SC is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Contour 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 100 more horse power than 1999 Saturn SC. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1999 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 345 kg more than 1999 Saturn SC. 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 73 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Saturn SC. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Saturn SC. 1999 Saturn SC has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Saturn SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 1999 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Contour | SC |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |
