1998 Ford Contour vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 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 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 528 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer 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, 2003 Ford Explorer 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Contour | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 4014 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| 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 | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 85 L |
