1961 Austin 7 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 36 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1961 Austin 7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1961 Austin 7 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 @ 6700 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1961 Austin 7. (33 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1961 Austin 7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 780 kg more than 1961 Austin 7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1997 Ford Contour (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 171 more torque (in Nm) than 1961 Austin 7. (60 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1961 Austin 7.
Compare all specifications:
| 1961 Austin 7 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | 7 | Contour |
| Year Released | 1961 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 848 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 33 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 60 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 610 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3060 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1450 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1360 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2040 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 72 L | 55 L |
