1998 Ford Contour vs. 1996 Maserati Ghibli

To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Maserati Ghibli. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Maserati Ghibli would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Maserati Ghibli (302 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Maserati Ghibli should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 46 kg more than 1996 Maserati Ghibli.

Because 1996 Maserati Ghibli 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 1996 Maserati Ghibli. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1996 Maserati Ghibli (334 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 1996 Maserati Ghibli will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Ford Contour 1996 Maserati Ghibli
Make Ford Maserati
Model Contour Ghibli
Year Released 1998 1996
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2544 cc 1994 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 195 HP 302 HP
Engine RPM 6625 RPM 6250 RPM
Torque 224 Nm 334 Nm
Torque RPM 5625 RPM 4250 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Vehicle Weight 1411 kg 1365 kg
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1310 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2520 mm