1999 Ford Contour vs. 2003 Holden Statesman
To start off, 2003 Holden Statesman is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Ford Contour would be higher. At 3,791 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Holden Statesman (229 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 29 more horse power than 1999 Ford Contour. (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Holden Statesman weights approximately 333 kg more than 1999 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Holden Statesman 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 2003 Holden Statesman. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 2003 Holden Statesman (375 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2003 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Contour. 2003 Holden Statesman has automatic transmission and 1999 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1999 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Holden Statesman will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Ford Contour | 2003 Holden Statesman | |
| Make | Ford | Holden |
| Model | Contour | Statesman |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 3791 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 229 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 375 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1392 kg | 1725 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5200 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2950 mm |
