2004 Buick Rainier vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2004 Buick Rainier 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 4,195 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Buick Rainier is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Buick Rainier (275 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Buick Rainier should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Buick Rainier weights approximately 604 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 Buick Rainier 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 2004 Buick Rainier. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 2004 Buick Rainier (387 Nm) has 163 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm). This means 2004 Buick Rainier will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Buick Rainier | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Buick | Ford |
| Model | Rainier | Contour |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4195 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6625 RPM |
| Torque | 387 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2015 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1900 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2780 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 54 L |
