2005 Acura RSX vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2005 Acura RSX is newer by 8 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 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Acura RSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Acura RSX (160 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (125 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Acura RSX weights approximately 32 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, 2005 Acura RSX (191 Nm) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm). This means 2005 Acura RSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2005 Acura RSX 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. 2005 Acura RSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Acura RSX | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Acura | Ford |
| Model | RSX | Contour |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1274 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4390 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
