1981 Audi 100 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 Audi 100. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 Audi 100 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 115 more horse power than 1981 Audi 100. (85 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1981 Audi 100. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 280 kg more than 1981 Audi 100. 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, 1997 Ford Contour (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1981 Audi 100. (124 Nm @ 3200 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1981 Audi 100.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 Audi 100 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Audi | Ford |
| Model | 100 | Contour |
| Year Released | 1981 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 85 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 124 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1110 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2710 mm |
