1997 Ford Contour vs. 2013 Kia Forte
To start off, 2013 Kia Forte is newer by 16 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Kia Forte is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Kia Forte (154 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Kia Forte should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 4 kg more than 2013 Kia Forte.
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, 2013 Kia Forte (195 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Kia Forte will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 2013 Kia Forte | |
| Make | Ford | Kia |
| Model | Contour | Forte |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1987 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 195 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1238 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1775 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
