1997 Ford Contour vs. 2004 Renault Clio
To start off, 2004 Renault Clio is newer by 7 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 2,946 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Renault Clio is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Renault Clio (251 HP @ 7150 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Renault Clio should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Renault Clio weights approximately 26 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 2004 Renault Clio 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 2004 Renault Clio. 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, 2004 Renault Clio (300 Nm @ 4650 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2004 Renault Clio will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 2004 Renault Clio | |
Make | Ford | Renault |
Model | Contour | Clio |
Year Released | 1997 | 2004 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Middle |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2946 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 251 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 7150 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 300 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 4650 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.4:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1416 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 3850 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1950 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1430 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |