1997 Ford Contour vs. 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 4,172 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton (330 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 195 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 11 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton.
Because 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 Volkswagen Phaeton 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 Volkswagen Phaeton (430 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 250 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 2008 Volkswagen Phaeton | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Contour | Phaeton |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1987 cc | 4172 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 5 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 330 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 430 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1231 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5180 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3010 mm |