1997 Ford Contour vs. 1973 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 Volkswagen Passat. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 Volkswagen Passat would be higher. At 1,987 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 61 more horse power than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (74 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 362 kg more than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. 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 (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 Volkswagen Passat. (115 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 Volkswagen Passat.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 1973 Volkswagen Passat | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Contour | Passat |
Year Released | 1997 | 1973 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1987 cc | 1471 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 115 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 880 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4200 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1630 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1370 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2480 mm |