1998 Ford Contour vs. 2005 Mercury Sable
To start off, 2005 Mercury Sable 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 2,964 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mercury Sable is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mercury Sable (201 HP) has 6 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mercury Sable should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mercury Sable weights approximately 93 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 Mercury Sable (281 Nm) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm). This means 2005 Mercury Sable will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2005 Mercury Sable | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Contour | Sable |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 201 HP |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 281 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 89 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1504 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 68 L |
