1997 Ford Contour vs. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu
To start off, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 13 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2010 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu (169 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (125 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 317 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, 2010 Chevrolet Malibu (217 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu 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. 2010 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 2010 Chevrolet Malibu | |
Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
Model | Contour | Malibu |
Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 125 HP | 169 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 217 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1559 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4872 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1786 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1450 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2852 mm |