2008 Buick Enclave vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2008 Buick Enclave 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 3,600 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Buick Enclave is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Buick Enclave (275 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 140 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Buick Enclave should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Buick Enclave weights approximately 618 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour. 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, 2008 Buick Enclave (340 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 160 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Buick Enclave will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2008 Buick Enclave has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Buick Enclave will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Buick Enclave | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Buick | Ford |
| Model | Enclave | Contour |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3600 cc | 1987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 275 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1860 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5120 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2710 mm |
