1998 Ford Contour vs. 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara
To start off, 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Contour 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 54 more horse power than 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara. (141 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 6 kg more than 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara will offer significantly more control. 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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara. (212 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 1999 Suzuki Grand Vitara | |
| Make | Ford | Suzuki |
| Model | Contour | Grand Vitara |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2493 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 212 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 84 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1405 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 65 L |
