1998 Ford Contour vs. 2002 Honda Z
To start off, 2002 Honda Z is newer by 4 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 84 more horse power than 2002 Honda Z. (51 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2002 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 282 kg more than 2002 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Honda Z 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, 2002 Honda Z 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 (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Honda Z. (60 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Honda Z. 2002 Honda Z 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. 2002 Honda Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2002 Honda Z | |
| Make | Ford | Honda |
| Model | Contour | Z |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 656 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 60 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 3410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2370 mm |
