1998 Ford Contour vs. 2004 Ford GT
To start off, 2004 Ford GT is newer by 6 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 5,409 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford GT is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford GT (494 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 299 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford GT should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford GT weights approximately 109 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 2004 Ford GT 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 2004 Ford GT. 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, 2004 Ford GT (679 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 455 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2004 Ford GT will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2004 Ford GT | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Contour | GT |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 5409 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 494 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 679 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 90.2 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 105.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.4:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 305 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1520 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1130 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 66 L |
