1998 Ford Contour vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 102 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. 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, 1998 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Contour | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Contour | 3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1598 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 128 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 148 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1140 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2610 mm |