1957 Abarth 500 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 40 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 Abarth 500. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 Abarth 500 would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (200 HP) has 180 more horse power than 1957 Abarth 500. (20 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1957 Abarth 500. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 945 kg more than 1957 Abarth 500. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1957 Abarth 500 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 1957 Abarth 500. 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, 1997 Ford Contour (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 199 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 Abarth 500. (32 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 Abarth 500.
Compare all specifications:
1957 Abarth 500 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
Make | Abarth | Ford |
Model | 500 | Contour |
Year Released | 1957 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 478 cc | 2544 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 2 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 20 HP | 200 HP |
Torque | 32 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5625 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 445 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 2980 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1330 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1330 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 1850 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 27 L | 55 L |