1997 Ford Ka vs. 1996 Ford Contour
To start off, 1997 Ford Ka is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Contour would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Ford Contour (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ka. (59 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Contour weights approximately 362 kg more than 1997 Ford Ka. 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, 1996 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ka. (105 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ka.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Ka | 1996 Ford Contour | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Ka | Contour |
Year Released | 1997 | 1996 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1299 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 59 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 105 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 84.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 75.5 mm | 88 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 880 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3630 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |