2002 Ford GT 40 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2002 Ford GT 40 is newer by 5 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 4,195 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Ford GT 40 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford GT 40 (350 HP @ 7200 RPM) has 182 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford GT 40 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford GT 40 weights approximately 206 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Ford GT 40 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 2002 Ford GT 40. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 1997 Ford Contour (220 Nm) has 135 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford GT 40. (85 Nm). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford GT 40. 1997 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford GT 40 has manual transmission. 2002 Ford GT 40 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford GT 40 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | GT 40 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 350 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 85 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1520 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1960 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1110 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
