1998 Ford Contour vs. 1997 Mercury MC4

To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mercury MC4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mercury MC4 would be higher. At 4,601 cc (8 cylinders), 1997 Mercury MC4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Mercury MC4 (202 HP @ 4250 RPM) has 7 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Mercury MC4 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour.

Because 1997 Mercury MC4 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 1997 Mercury MC4. 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, 1997 Mercury MC4 (387 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 1997 Mercury MC4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 1997 Mercury MC4 has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Mercury MC4 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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