1997 Ford Contour vs. 1971 Rover 2000
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 Rover 2000. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 Rover 2000 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 94 more horse power than 1971 Rover 2000. (106 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1971 Rover 2000. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 95 kg more than 1971 Rover 2000. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 Rover 2000 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 1971 Rover 2000. 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, 1997 Ford Contour (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 1971 Rover 2000. (172 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1971 Rover 2000.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 1971 Rover 2000 | |
| Make | Ford | Rover |
| Model | Contour | 2000 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1971 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1978 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 172 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 3750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1295 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2640 mm |
