2004 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 7 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP) has 75 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (125 HP). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 262 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.
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, 2004 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 118 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Malibu | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Contour |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 125 HP |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1504 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2710 mm |
