2000 Ford Contour vs. 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis
To start off, 2000 Ford Contour is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis would be higher. At 4,600 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis (208 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 73 more horse power than 2000 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis should accelerate faster than 2000 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis weights approximately 473 kg more than 2000 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis 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 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Ford Contour | 1996 Mercury Grand Marquis | |
| Make | Ford | Mercury |
| Model | Contour | Grand Marquis |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 4600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 208 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1715 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1980 mm |
