1998 Ford Contour vs. 2005 Hyundai Sonata
To start off, 2005 Hyundai Sonata is newer by 7 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 2,655 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Hyundai Sonata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (170 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Hyundai Sonata should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Hyundai Sonata weights approximately 234 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, 2005 Hyundai Sonata (245 Nm) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm). This means 2005 Hyundai Sonata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2005 Hyundai Sonata | |
| Make | Ford | Hyundai |
| Model | Contour | Sonata |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2655 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.9 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1476 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |
