1997 Ford Contour vs. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze 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 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 39 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze. (161 HP @ 3800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Cruze.
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, 2012 Chevrolet Cruze (360 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze 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. 2012 Chevrolet Cruze will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 2012 Chevrolet Cruze | |
Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
Model | Contour | Cruze |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1998 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 161 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 360 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 1750 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 16.5:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4597 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1788 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1476 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2685 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 59 L |