1998 Ford Contour vs. 2009 Mazda Tribute
To start off, 2009 Mazda Tribute 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 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2009 Mazda Tribute. (171 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda Tribute. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 139 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Mazda Tribute (232 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2009 Mazda Tribute | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Contour | Tribute |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2483 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 232 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 62 L |
