2008 Acura TL vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2008 Acura TL is newer by 11 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 3,471 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Acura TL (286 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 40 kg more than 2008 Acura TL.
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, 2008 Acura TL (347 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Acura TL | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Acura | Ford |
| Model | TL | Contour |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3471 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 347 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1274 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4830 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2710 mm |
