1998 Ford Contour vs. 1997 Alfa Romeo 146
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Alfa Romeo 146. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 (150 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 17 kg more than 1997 Alfa Romeo 146.
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, 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 (187 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 1997 Alfa Romeo 146 | |
| Make | Ford | Alfa Romeo |
| Model | Contour | 146 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1225 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4260 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2550 mm |
