1997 Ford Contour vs. 2008 Lexus RX
To start off, 2008 Lexus RX 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 3,311 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Lexus RX (268 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Lexus RX weights approximately 725 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 2008 Lexus RX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Lexus RX will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Lexus RX (287 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2008 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2008 Lexus RX 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. 2008 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 2008 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Contour | RX |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 3311 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 287 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 2115 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
