1979 Ford LTD vs. 1997 Ford Contour

To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford LTD. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford LTD would be higher. At 5,763 cc (8 cylinders), 1979 Ford LTD is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 Ford LTD (297 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (125 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 Ford LTD should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1979 Ford LTD weights approximately 548 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 1979 Ford LTD 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 1979 Ford LTD. 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, 1979 Ford LTD (525 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 345 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1979 Ford LTD will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 1979 Ford LTD 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. 1979 Ford LTD will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications: