1974 Buick Centurion vs. 1997 Ford Contour

To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 23 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Buick Centurion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Buick Centurion would be higher. At 7,468 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 Buick Centurion is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 Buick Centurion (226 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (200 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 Buick Centurion should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 Buick Centurion weights approximately 680 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1974 Buick Centurion 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 1974 Buick Centurion. 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, 1974 Buick Centurion (498 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 267 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 1974 Buick Centurion will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 1974 Buick Centurion has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1974 Buick Centurion will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications: