2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara vs. 1999 Ford Contour
To start off, 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Ford Contour would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Contour (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara. (126 HP @ 5900 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara weights approximately 188 kg more than 1999 Ford Contour.
Because 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1999 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara will offer significantly more control. 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 Suzuki Grand Vitara (177 Nm @ 2900 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Contour. (175 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Suzuki Grand Vitara | 1999 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Suzuki | Ford |
| Model | Grand Vitara | Contour |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1999 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 177 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2900 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4200 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2710 mm |
