1998 Ford Contour vs. 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer
To start off, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer (276 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 141 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer weights approximately 228 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 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer will offer significantly more control. 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 Mitsubishi Lancer (388 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2005 Mitsubishi Lancer | |
| Make | Ford | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Contour | Lancer |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 388 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1470 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
