2009 Ford Ka vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2009 Ford Ka 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 (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2009 Ford Ka. (94 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Ka. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 178 kg more than 2009 Ford Ka. 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 (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Ka. (136 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Ka. 1997 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 2009 Ford Ka has manual transmission. 2009 Ford Ka will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Ka | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Ka | Contour |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Roadster | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1599 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 94 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1136 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3660 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2710 mm |
