1998 Ford Contour vs. 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee
To start off, 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee 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 3,960 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 195 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee weights approximately 305 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour.
Because 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee 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 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee. 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, 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee (312 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 88 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee 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 Jeep Grand Cherokee will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2002 Jeep Grand Cherokee | |
| Make | Ford | Jeep |
| Model | Contour | Grand Cherokee |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 3960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 312 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 98.3 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 86.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1716 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2700 mm |
