1998 Ford Contour vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 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 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 47 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 111 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3. 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, 1998 Ford Contour (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2011 Mazda 3 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 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Contour | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
