1997 Ford Contour vs. 2008 Renault Megane
To start off, 2008 Renault Megane 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 (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2008 Renault Megane. (134 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2008 Renault Megane. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 9 kg more than 2008 Renault Megane. 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 (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Renault Megane. (191 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Renault Megane. 1997 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 2008 Renault Megane has manual transmission. 2008 Renault Megane will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 2008 Renault Megane | |
| Make | Ford | Renault |
| Model | Contour | Megane |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 191 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 1305 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4220 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2630 mm |
