2004 Ford Mustang vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2004 Ford Mustang 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 3,802 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Mustang is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Mustang (191 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Mustang should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 16 kg more than 2004 Ford Mustang.
Because 2004 Ford Mustang 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 Ford Mustang. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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 Ford Mustang (298 Nm) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (220 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Mustang | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Mustang | Contour |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3802 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 191 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
