1997 Ford Contour vs. 2012 Cadillac CTS
To start off, 2012 Cadillac CTS is newer by 15 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 3,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Cadillac CTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Cadillac CTS (270 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Cadillac CTS should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Cadillac CTS weights approximately 358 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.
Because 2012 Cadillac CTS 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 2012 Cadillac CTS. 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, 2012 Cadillac CTS (302 Nm @ 5700 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2012 Cadillac CTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 2012 Cadillac CTS | |
Make | Ford | Cadillac |
Model | Contour | CTS |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 3000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 302 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1748 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4877 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1842 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1473 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2880 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 68 L |