1998 Ford Focus vs. 1999 Ford Contour
To start off, 1999 Ford Contour is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Focus would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 128 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Contour weights approximately 168 kg more than 1998 Ford Focus.
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, both vehicles can yield 175 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1999 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Focus | 1999 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Focus | Contour |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 128 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1074 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
