2012 GMC Sierra vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2012 GMC Sierra is newer by 15 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 5,300 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 GMC Sierra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 GMC Sierra (315 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 190 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (125 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2012 GMC Sierra should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 GMC Sierra weights approximately 1069 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 GMC Sierra is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2012 GMC Sierra. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2012 GMC Sierra (454 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 GMC Sierra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2012 GMC Sierra | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | GMC | Ford |
| Model | Sierra | Contour |
| Year Released | 2012 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5300 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 315 HP | 125 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 454 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Flex Fuel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | 6-speed shiftable automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 2311 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5847 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2032 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3645 mm | 2710 mm |
