1998 Ford Contour vs. 1996 TVR Chimaera
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 TVR Chimaera. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 TVR Chimaera would be higher. At 3,946 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 TVR Chimaera is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 TVR Chimaera (225 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 90 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 TVR Chimaera should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 217 kg more than 1996 TVR Chimaera.
Because 1996 TVR Chimaera 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 TVR Chimaera. 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 TVR Chimaera (373 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1996 TVR Chimaera will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Contour | 1996 TVR Chimaera | |
Make | Ford | TVR |
Model | Contour | Chimaera |
Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3946 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 225 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 373 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1025 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4030 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1220 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2290 mm |