1997 Ford Contour vs. 2002 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 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 2,616 cc, 2002 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda RX-8 (238 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 52 kg more than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2002 Mazda RX-8 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 2002 Mazda RX-8. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1997 Ford Contour (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 2002 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Contour | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 238 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1338 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
