1997 Ford Contour vs. 2003 Subaru R2
To start off, 2003 Subaru R2 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 (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2003 Subaru R2. (44 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2003 Subaru R2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 504 kg more than 2003 Subaru R2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Subaru R2 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Subaru R2 will offer significantly more control. 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 (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Subaru R2. (58 Nm @ 5200 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Subaru R2. 1997 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 2003 Subaru R2 has manual transmission. 2003 Subaru R2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 2003 Subaru R2 | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | Contour | R2 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 658 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 44 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 58 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 810 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 3400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1480 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1530 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2370 mm |
