1997 Ford Contour vs. 2009 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,987 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 5 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.
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, 2009 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 2009 Volkswagen Golf | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Contour | Golf |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1987 cc | 1984 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 200 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1247 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4210 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2580 mm |