1997 Ford Contour vs. 1977 Plymouth Volare
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Plymouth Volare. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Plymouth Volare would be higher. At 3,687 cc (6 cylinders), 1977 Plymouth Volare is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1977 Plymouth Volare. (100 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1977 Plymouth Volare. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1977 Plymouth Volare weights approximately 98 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour.
Because 1977 Plymouth Volare 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 1977 Plymouth Volare. 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, both vehicles can yield 231 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 1977 Plymouth Volare | |
| Make | Ford | Plymouth |
| Model | Contour | Volare |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1977 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 3687 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1488 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5120 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1870 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2870 mm |
