1997 Ford Contour vs. 2004 Lexus SC
To start off, 2004 Lexus SC 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 2,997 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Lexus SC is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Lexus SC (225 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Lexus SC should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Lexus SC weights approximately 233 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Lexus SC 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 2004 Lexus SC. 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, 2004 Lexus SC (290 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Lexus SC will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 2004 Lexus SC | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Contour | SC |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1987 cc | 2997 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 225 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 290 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 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 | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1475 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4870 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2700 mm |
