1998 Ford Contour vs. 2004 Ford Thunderbird
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird 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 3,934 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (249 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 334 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 Thunderbird 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 Thunderbird. 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 Thunderbird (388 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2004 Ford Thunderbird 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. 2004 Ford Thunderbird will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Contour | 2004 Ford Thunderbird | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Contour | Thunderbird |
Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 3934 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 195 HP | 249 HP |
Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 388 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1745 kg |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 59 L |