2005 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 7 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 48 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.
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 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Malibu | Contour |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6625 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1459 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |
