2008 Citroen C3 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2008 Citroen C3 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (125 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2008 Citroen C3. (89 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2008 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 95 kg more than 2008 Citroen C3. 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 Citroen C3 (200 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Citroen C3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2008 Citroen C3 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 Citroen C3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Citroen C3 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | C3 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1398 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 200 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 73.7 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 82 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1670 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1540 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2710 mm |
