1997 Ford Contour vs. 2008 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2008 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 11 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 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 38 more horse power than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. (162 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 196 kg more than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. 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, 1997 Ford Contour (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Hyundai Sonata. (222 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Hyundai Sonata.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 2008 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Ford | Hyundai |
| Model | Contour | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2359 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 162 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 222 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4800 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 67 L |
