1997 Ford Contour vs. 1958 Opel Kapitan
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 39 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1958 Opel Kapitan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1958 Opel Kapitan 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 (168 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 1958 Opel Kapitan. (74 HP @ 3900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1958 Opel Kapitan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 99 kg more than 1958 Opel Kapitan. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1958 Opel Kapitan 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 1958 Opel Kapitan. 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. 1997 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 1958 Opel Kapitan has manual transmission. 1958 Opel Kapitan will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 1958 Opel Kapitan | |
| Make | Ford | Opel |
| Model | Contour | Kapitan |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1958 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2473 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 3900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1570 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |
