1998 Ford Contour vs. 1996 Rover 400
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Rover 400. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Rover 400 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 @ 6625 RPM) has 93 more horse power than 1996 Rover 400. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1996 Rover 400. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 291 kg more than 1996 Rover 400. 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 42 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Rover 400. (182 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Rover 400.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 1996 Rover 400 | |
| Make | Ford | Rover |
| Model | Contour | 400 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1396 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 102 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
