1997 Ford Contour vs. 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis
To start off, 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis is newer by 8 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis (224 HP) has 24 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (200 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis weights approximately 446 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 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis 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 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis. 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, 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis (373 Nm) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm). This means 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 2005 Mercury Grand Marquis | |
Make | Ford | Mercury |
Model | Contour | Grand Marquis |
Year Released | 1997 | 2005 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 4605 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 224 HP |
Torque | 231 Nm | 373 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 6 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1836 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5390 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1990 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2900 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |