1971 Austin 1800 vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Austin 1800. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Austin 1800 would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1971 Austin 1800. (86 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1971 Austin 1800. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 48 kg more than 1971 Austin 1800. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Austin 1800. (140 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Austin 1800.
Compare all specifications:
| 1971 Austin 1800 | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Austin | Ford |
| Model | 1800 | Contour |
| Year Released | 1971 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1194 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4250 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |
