2009 Citroen C3 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2009 Citroen C3 is newer by 12 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 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2009 Citroen C3. (108 HP @ 5750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2009 Citroen C3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 124 kg more than 2009 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, 1997 Ford Contour (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 87 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Citroen C3. (144 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Citroen C3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Citroen C3 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Citroen | Ford |
| Model | C3 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 144 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| 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 | 1266 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3860 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1530 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 55 L |
