1959 Chevrolet Corvair vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 38 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1959 Chevrolet Corvair would be higher. At 2,286 cc (6 cylinders), 1959 Chevrolet Corvair is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (125 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. (81 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 82 kg more than 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1959 Chevrolet Corvair 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 1959 Chevrolet Corvair. 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.
Compare all specifications:
1959 Chevrolet Corvair | 1997 Ford Contour | |
Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
Model | Corvair | Contour |
Year Released | 1959 | 1997 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Rear | Front |
Engine Size | 2286 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 81 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1160 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1310 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2710 mm |