1998 Ford Contour vs. 2005 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2005 Volkswagen Passat 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 2,770 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Volkswagen Passat is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. (190 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2005 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Volkswagen Passat weights approximately 137 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour.
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 Volkswagen Passat (279 Nm) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm). This means 2005 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2005 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Contour | Passat |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2770 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 279 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1548 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
