1997 Ford Contour vs. 2004 Acura RSX
To start off, 2004 Acura RSX is newer by 7 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 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Acura RSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Acura RSX (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (125 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 20 kg more than 2004 Acura RSX.
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, 2004 Acura RSX (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Acura RSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2004 Acura RSX 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. 2004 Acura RSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 2004 Acura RSX | |
| Make | Ford | Acura |
| Model | Contour | RSX |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 125 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 192 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 86 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1222 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |
