2003 Ford Taurus vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2003 Ford Taurus is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Taurus (155 HP @ 4900 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Taurus weights approximately 235 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Ford Taurus (244 Nm @ 3950 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2003 Ford Taurus has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Taurus will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Taurus | 1998 Ford Contour | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Taurus | Contour |
Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2967 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 155 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 4900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 244 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3950 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 84.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78.7 mm | 88 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1477 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2710 mm |