2004 Ford Focus vs. 1996 Ford Contour
To start off, 2004 Ford Focus 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. Both 2004 Ford Focus and 1996 Ford Contour are equipped with a 1,989 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Focus (171 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Focus weights approximately 5 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.
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 Ford Focus (197 Nm) has 17 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Focus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Focus | 1996 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Focus | Contour |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 171 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 197 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1247 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
