2004 Acura MDX vs. 1998 Ford Contour

To start off, 2004 Acura MDX is newer by 6 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 3,474 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Acura MDX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Acura MDX (265 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Acura MDX should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Acura MDX weights approximately 635 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.

Because 2004 Acura MDX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Acura MDX will offer significantly more control. 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, 2004 Acura MDX (343 Nm) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm). This means 2004 Acura MDX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Acura MDX 1998 Ford Contour
Make Acura Ford
Model MDX Contour
Year Released 2004 1998
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 3474 cc 2544 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Horse Power 265 HP 195 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6625 RPM
Torque 343 Nm 224 Nm
Engine Bore Size 89 mm 82.4 mm
Engine Stroke Size 93 mm 79.5 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.0:1 10.0:1
Drive Type 4WD Front
Number of Seats 7 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 2046 kg 1411 kg
Vehicle Height 1820 mm 1390 mm
Wheelbase Size 2750 mm 2730 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 73 L 54 L