1997 Ford Contour vs. 2007 Lexus IS
To start off, 2007 Lexus IS is newer by 10 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 2,499 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Lexus IS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Lexus IS (205 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (125 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Lexus IS should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Lexus IS weights approximately 523 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 2007 Lexus IS 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 2007 Lexus IS. 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, 2007 Lexus IS (251 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Lexus IS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2007 Lexus IS 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. 2007 Lexus IS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 2007 Lexus IS | |
Make | Ford | Lexus |
Model | Contour | IS |
Year Released | 1997 | 2007 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2499 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 125 HP | 205 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 251 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1765 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4580 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2740 mm |