1998 Ford Contour vs. 2012 Audi Q3
To start off, 2012 Audi Q3 is newer by 14 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 57 more horse power than 2012 Audi Q3. (138 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi Q3.
Because 2012 Audi Q3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi Q3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Audi Q3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2012 Audi Q3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2012 Audi Q3 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. 2012 Audi Q3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2012 Audi Q3 | |
| Make | Ford | Audi |
| Model | Contour | Q3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1964 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 1750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1600 mm |
