1998 Ford Libre vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 1998 Ford Libre is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Contour would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (125 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1998 Ford Libre. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Libre. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Libre weights approximately 56 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour.
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, 1997 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Libre. (112 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Libre.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Libre | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Libre | Contour |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1242 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 112 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1242 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
