1997 Ford Contour vs. 1955 Oldsmobile 98
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 42 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1955 Oldsmobile 98. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1955 Oldsmobile 98 would be higher. At 5,320 cc (8 cylinders), 1955 Oldsmobile 98 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1955 Oldsmobile 98 (200 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1955 Oldsmobile 98 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1955 Oldsmobile 98 weights approximately 486 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 1955 Oldsmobile 98 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 1955 Oldsmobile 98. 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, 1955 Oldsmobile 98 (450 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 270 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1955 Oldsmobile 98 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 1955 Oldsmobile 98 | |
Make | Ford | Oldsmobile |
Model | Contour | 98 |
Year Released | 1997 | 1955 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1987 cc | 5320 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 450 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1728 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1990 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1590 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3210 mm |