2009 Ford Taurus vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2009 Ford Taurus 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 3,496 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Taurus is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Taurus (260 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Taurus should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 348 kg more than 2009 Ford Taurus.
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, 2009 Ford Taurus (249 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Taurus will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Taurus | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Taurus | Contour |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3496 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 249 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 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 | 966 kg | 1314 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |
