1998 Ford Contour vs. 2008 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 10 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 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 666 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 2008 Ford Explorer 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 2008 Ford Explorer. 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Contour | 2008 Ford Explorer | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Contour | Explorer |
Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 4013 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Horse Power | 195 HP | 210 HP |
Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 344 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 3700 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 2077 kg |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1850 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3320 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 85 L |