1998 Ford Contour vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 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 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 82 kg more than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2008 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 2008 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, 1998 Ford Contour (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Contour | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 232 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 60 L |
