1998 Ford Contour vs. 2012 Lexus GS
To start off, 2012 Lexus GS 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 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Lexus GS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Lexus GS (342 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Lexus GS should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus GS weights approximately 378 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 2012 Lexus GS 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 2012 Lexus GS. 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, 2012 Lexus GS (459 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 235 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus GS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2012 Lexus GS 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 Lexus GS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2012 Lexus GS | |
| Make | Ford | Lexus |
| Model | Contour | GS |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 342 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 459 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 3600 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 | 1789 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1425 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2850 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 71 L |
