1998 Ford Contour vs. 2005 Nissan Pathfinder
To start off, 2005 Nissan Pathfinder 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 3,950 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Nissan Pathfinder is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Nissan Pathfinder (270 HP @ 3600 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Nissan Pathfinder should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Nissan Pathfinder weights approximately 773 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 Nissan Pathfinder 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 Nissan Pathfinder 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 Nissan Pathfinder (395 Nm) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm). This means 2005 Nissan Pathfinder will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2005 Nissan Pathfinder | |
| Make | Ford | Nissan |
| Model | Contour | Pathfinder |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 3950 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 395 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 2184 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1860 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 80 L |
