1998 Ford Contour vs. 2011 Chevrolet Traverse
To start off, 2011 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 13 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Chevrolet Traverse (281 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 931 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.
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, 2011 Chevrolet Traverse (360 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 180 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2011 Chevrolet Traverse 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. 2011 Chevrolet Traverse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2011 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Contour | Traverse |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 281 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 2173 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5207 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1991 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1849 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3020 mm |
