1998 Ford Contour vs. 2008 Mazda DrifterX
To start off, 2008 Mazda DrifterX 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 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda DrifterX is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda DrifterX weights approximately 238 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour.
Because 2008 Mazda DrifterX 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 Mazda DrifterX. 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 Mazda DrifterX (257 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 77 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda DrifterX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2008 Mazda DrifterX | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Contour | DrifterX |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2499 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 257 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1480 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5010 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3010 mm |
