1997 Ford Contour vs. 2003 Renault Megane
To start off, 2003 Renault Megane is newer by 6 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 82 more horse power than 2003 Renault Megane. (118 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2003 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 95 kg more than 2003 Renault Megane. 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, 2003 Renault Megane (300 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2003 Renault Megane will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 2003 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Contour | Megane |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1870 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 300 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 18.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2750 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
