1998 Ford Contour vs. 2009 Ford Escape
To start off, 2009 Ford Escape is newer by 11 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 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Escape is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2009 Ford Escape. (171 HP @ 6550 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Escape. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 445 kg more than 2009 Ford Escape. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Ford Escape is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Ford Escape will offer significantly more control. 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, 2009 Ford Escape (302 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Escape will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2009 Ford Escape 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. 2009 Ford Escape will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2009 Ford Escape | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Contour | Escape |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2976 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 6550 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 302 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 966 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
