2005 Ford Fiesta vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2005 Ford Fiesta 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 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 133 more horse power than 2005 Ford Fiesta. (67 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 245 kg more than 2005 Ford Fiesta. 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, 1997 Ford Contour (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Fiesta. (162 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Fiesta | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta | Contour |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1399 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 67 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 162 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1145 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
