2006 Chevrolet Optra vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Optra is newer by 8 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 20 more horse power than 2006 Chevrolet Optra. (108 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2006 Chevrolet Optra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Optra weights approximately 508 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour.
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 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Chevrolet Optra. (151 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Chevrolet Optra. 1998 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 2006 Chevrolet Optra has manual transmission. 2006 Chevrolet Optra will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Optra | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Optra | Contour |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 128 HP |
| Torque | 151 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 79 mm | 84.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 81.5 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2710 mm |
