Contour vs. SVT Contour. Differences.

[Duende]

Could someone lay out or point to a page detailing the differences between the normal model and the SVT model? Thanks!

Thinking about picking up a project car that'll go through some heavy engine/tranny/suspension mods, and unsure which the best starting point would be.

 

[Pudmunkies]

if you're going to replace the entire engine and drivetrain as well as the suspension then you've got nothing really SVT left in it except for the ECM.

That being said, id still rather buy an SVT than an SE. The SE's seem to have some problems w/ 3 liter swaps and tuning.... The SVT PCM will run a relativley stock 3.0 swap no problem, and tuning only brings out the beast within!

Plus picking up an SVT means you get the body kit, and the 'exclusivity' of owning an SVT vehicle. You should be able to find one with a good body and busted motor for real cheap.

 

[Jason43]

See the 'difference' thread thats directly below this one.

 

[Crazycarl]

More Aggressive, Longer Duration cams (+8 degrees intake cams / + 2 degrees exhaust cams) with completely different valve timing points.
Single Extrude honed UIM (98/98.5) – DH (99/00)
+3/4mm larger LIM (98/98.5) - +6mm LIM (99/00)
Extrude honed heads - (98/98.5 - Secondary) (99/00 – Primary & Secondary)
Different pistons (10:1 vs 9.7:1 – 98/98.5/99) (10.25 – 00)
19# Injectors (vs 17#)
60mm throttle body (vs 54mm)
More aggressive PCM tuning
Conical filter assembly
Lighter flywheel
Water to Oil Oil cooler
Larger radiator (+14mm)
Beefier transmission roll resistors and Stab-o-shock Engine roll reducer

...and that's just under the hood

Bigger brakes
Better front & rear stabilizer bars
Better spring rates
More aggressively valved struts

et cetera, et cetera...

The simple answer is buy the SVT if you want a CDW-27.

save some time

 

[KevinMac]

Here is a good comparison:
http://www.stuff.to/svtspecs.php

Keep in mind the 1999 and 2000 SVT are up to 200HP and 170lb ft torque.

 

[Duende]

And the prices of used Contours kick ass!

Thanks, gents.