1998 Ford Contour vs. 2003 Kia Opirus
To start off, 2003 Kia Opirus 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 3,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Kia Opirus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Kia Opirus (196 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Kia Opirus should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Kia Opirus weights approximately 349 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.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Kia Opirus (295 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2003 Kia Opirus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2003 Kia Opirus 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. 2003 Kia Opirus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Contour | 2003 Kia Opirus | |
Make | Ford | Kia |
Model | Contour | Opirus |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 3497 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 195 HP | 196 HP |
Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 295 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 93 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 85.8 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1760 kg |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2810 mm |