2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo 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 3,786 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo (200 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (125 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo weights approximately 298 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 Monte Carlo (305 Nm) has 125 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chevrolet Monte Carlo | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Monte Carlo | Contour |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3786 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 |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 97 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1540 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |
