1998 Ford Contour vs. 2005 Subaru Impreza
To start off, 2005 Subaru Impreza 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 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2005 Subaru Impreza. (168 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2005 Subaru Impreza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 63 kg more than 2005 Subaru Impreza. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Subaru Impreza 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 Subaru Impreza 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 Subaru Impreza (225 Nm) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm). This means 2005 Subaru Impreza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2005 Subaru Impreza | |
| Make | Ford | Subaru |
| Model | Contour | Impreza |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2458 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | boxer |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 100 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1348 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2530 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
