1998 Ford Contour vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 183 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 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Contour | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Contour | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2007 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1306 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 128 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |