1997 Ford Contour vs. 2009 Volkswagen Routan
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Routan 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 3,796 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Volkswagen Routan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Routan (197 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 62 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Routan should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Routan weights approximately 1065 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 Routan (313 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 133 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Routan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2009 Volkswagen Routan 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 Volkswagen Routan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 2009 Volkswagen Routan | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Contour | Routan |
Year Released | 1997 | 2009 |
Body Type | Sedan | Minivan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1987 cc | 3796 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 197 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 313 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 2307 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5150 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1960 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1760 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3080 mm |