2004 Ford Thunderbird vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2004 Ford Thunderbird is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Contour would be higher. At 3,933 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Thunderbird is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Thunderbird (280 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 145 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Thunderbird should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Thunderbird weights approximately 470 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Thunderbird 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 Thunderbird. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 Thunderbird (388 Nm) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Thunderbird will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Thunderbird | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Thunderbird | Contour |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3933 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 388 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1712 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4740 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2710 mm |
