1998 Ford Contour vs. 2011 Jaguar XJ
To start off, 2011 Jaguar XJ 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 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Jaguar XJ is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Jaguar XJ (470 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 275 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Jaguar XJ should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Jaguar XJ weights approximately 531 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 Jaguar XJ 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 Jaguar XJ. 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 Jaguar XJ (574 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 350 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2011 Jaguar XJ will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2011 Jaguar XJ 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 Jaguar XJ will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2011 Jaguar XJ | |
| Make | Ford | Jaguar |
| Model | Contour | XJ |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 5000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 470 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 574 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1942 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1448 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3033 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 82 L |
