1997 Ford Contour vs. 2004 Pontiac Montana
To start off, 2004 Pontiac Montana 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 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Pontiac Montana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Pontiac Montana (185 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Pontiac Montana should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Pontiac Montana weights approximately 474 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.
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 Pontiac Montana (298 Nm) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (220 Nm). This means 2004 Pontiac Montana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 2004 Pontiac Montana | |
| Make | Ford | Pontiac |
| Model | Contour | Montana |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 185 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 298 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 1788 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3050 mm |
