2004 Chevrolet Suburban vs. 1996 Ford Contour

To start off, 2004 Chevrolet Suburban is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Contour would be higher. At 5,965 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Chevrolet Suburban is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chevrolet Suburban (325 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 196 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Suburban should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chevrolet Suburban weights approximately 1417 kg more than 1996 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2004 Chevrolet Suburban is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Chevrolet Suburban 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 Chevrolet Suburban (495 Nm) has 315 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Chevrolet Suburban will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Contour.

Compare all specifications:

2004 Chevrolet Suburban 1996 Ford Contour
Make Chevrolet Ford
Model Suburban Contour
Year Released 2004 1996
Body Type SUV Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 5965 cc 1989 cc
Engine Cylinders 8 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 325 HP 129 HP
Engine RPM 5600 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 495 Nm 180 Nm
Engine Bore Size 102 mm 84.8 mm
Engine Stroke Size 92 mm 88 mm
Drive Type 4WD Front
Number of Seats 9 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 2659 kg 1242 kg
Vehicle Length 5580 mm 4680 mm
Vehicle Width 2030 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1950 mm 1400 mm
Wheelbase Size 3310 mm 2710 mm