2006 Ford Fiesta vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2006 Ford Fiesta is newer by 9 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 1,987 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2006 Ford Fiesta. (101 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 33 kg more than 1997 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, 1997 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Fiesta. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Fiesta | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Fiesta | Contour |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | 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 | 1275 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2120 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2710 mm |
