1998 Ford Contour vs. 2006 Nissan 350Z
To start off, 2006 Nissan 350Z is newer by 8 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 3,491 cc, 2006 Nissan 350Z is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan 350Z (300 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan 350Z should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Nissan 350Z weights approximately 299 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 2006 Nissan 350Z is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Nissan 350Z. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2006 Nissan 350Z (353 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan 350Z will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Contour | 2006 Nissan 350Z | |
Make | Ford | Nissan |
Model | Contour | 350Z |
Year Released | 1998 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 3491 cc |
Horse Power | 195 HP | 300 HP |
Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 6400 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 353 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 4800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1710 kg |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1340 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2660 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 76 L |