1998 Ford Contour vs. 2013 Chevrolet Traverse
To start off, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse is newer by 15 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Chevrolet Traverse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse (277 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Chevrolet Traverse weights approximately 730 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.
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, 2013 Chevrolet Traverse (366 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2013 Chevrolet Traverse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2013 Chevrolet Traverse 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. 2013 Chevrolet Traverse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2013 Chevrolet Traverse | |
| Make | Ford | Chevrolet |
| Model | Contour | Traverse |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Crossover |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 3600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 277 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 3400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 2141 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1846 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3020 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 83 L |
