1997 Ford Contour vs. 2002 Saturn SC
To start off, 2002 Saturn SC 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 1,987 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2002 Saturn SC. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2002 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 172 kg more than 2002 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 (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Saturn SC. (154 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Saturn SC. 2002 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. 2002 Saturn SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 2002 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Ford | Saturn |
| Model | Contour | SC |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2002 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1987 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 154 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1070 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
