1998 Ford Contour vs. 2005 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2005 Toyota Highlander 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 35 more horse power than 2005 Toyota Highlander. (160 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2005 Toyota Highlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 290 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour.
Because 2005 Toyota Highlander 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 Toyota Highlander 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, both vehicles can yield 224 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2005 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Contour | Highlander |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2358 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 160 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1701 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
