1997 Ford Contour vs. 1949 Jensen Interceptor
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 48 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1949 Jensen Interceptor. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1949 Jensen Interceptor would be higher. At 3,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1949 Jensen Interceptor is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 1949 Jensen Interceptor. (130 HP @ 3700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1949 Jensen Interceptor. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1949 Jensen Interceptor weights approximately 109 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour.
Because 1949 Jensen Interceptor 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 1949 Jensen Interceptor. 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, 1949 Jensen Interceptor (288 Nm @ 2200 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 1949 Jensen Interceptor will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 1949 Jensen Interceptor | |
| Make | Ford | Jensen |
| Model | Contour | Interceptor |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1949 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 3990 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 3700 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 288 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 2200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 6.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1499 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4830 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 59 L |
