2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Contour would be higher. At 1,998 cc, 2009 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 17 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour.
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 Mazda 3 (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 1998 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Mazda 3 | 1998 Ford Contour | |
Make | Mazda | Ford |
Model | 3 | Contour |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1989 cc |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 145 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 181 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 84.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 88 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2710 mm |