2005 Citroen C3 vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2005 Citroen C3 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (128 HP) has 56 more horse power than 2005 Citroen C3. (72 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2005 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 162 kg more than 2005 Citroen C3. 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, 1998 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Citroen C3. (115 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Citroen C3 | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | C3 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1359 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 72 HP | 128 HP |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 75 mm | 84.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2710 mm |
