1998 Ford Contour vs. 1989 Ford Fiesta
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1989 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1989 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP) has 120 more horse power than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (75 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1989 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 596 kg more than 1989 Ford Fiesta. 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, 1998 Ford Contour (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 1989 Ford Fiesta. (111 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1989 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 1989 Ford Fiesta | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Contour | Fiesta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1989 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1391 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 75 HP |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 111 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 77 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 74 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 815 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2450 mm |
