1998 Ford Contour vs. 2011 Ford Mustang
To start off, 2011 Ford Mustang 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 3,700 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Mustang (305 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford Mustang weights approximately 216 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.
Because 2011 Ford Mustang 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 2011 Ford Mustang. 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, 2011 Ford Mustang (379 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 155 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2011 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Contour | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 305 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1627 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 61 L |
