1999 Ford Contour vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1999 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1999 Ford Contour. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 183 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 2008 Mazda RX-8 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2008 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Contour. (175 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1999 Ford Contour | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Contour | RX-8 |
Year Released | 1999 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1308 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 128 HP | 228 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 8200 RPM |
Torque | 175 Nm | 211 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |