1997 Ford Contour vs. 2008 Subaru Outback
To start off, 2008 Subaru Outback 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 2,999 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Subaru Outback is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Subaru Outback (245 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (125 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Subaru Outback should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Subaru Outback weights approximately 343 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 Subaru Outback 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 Subaru Outback 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 Subaru Outback (297 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 117 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Subaru Outback will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2008 Subaru Outback 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 Subaru Outback will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 2008 Subaru Outback | |
Make | Ford | Subaru |
Model | Contour | Outback |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | boxer |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 125 HP | 245 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 297 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 89.2 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 80 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4870 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1690 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2680 mm |