1997 Ford Contour vs. 2009 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2009 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 12 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 92 more horse power than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 265 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Mazda RX-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2009 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 91 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8. 2009 Mazda RX-8 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. 2009 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 2009 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Contour | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 108 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 8200 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 140 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1125 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |