1968 Datsun 1800 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 Datsun 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 Datsun 1800 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 94 more horse power than 1968 Datsun 1800. (106 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1968 Datsun 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 424 kg more than 1968 Datsun 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1968 Datsun 1800 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 1968 Datsun 1800. 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 75 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 Datsun 1800. (156 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 Datsun 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 Datsun 1800 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Datsun | Ford |
| Model | 1800 | Contour |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1816 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 156 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.3:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1610 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 52 L | 55 L |
