1997 Ford Contour vs. 1982 Honda Ballade
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Honda Ballade. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Honda Ballade 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) has 101 more horse power than 1982 Honda Ballade. (67 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1982 Honda Ballade. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 529 kg more than 1982 Honda Ballade. 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 (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 1982 Honda Ballade. (109 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1982 Honda Ballade.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 1982 Honda Ballade | |
| Make | Ford | Honda |
| Model | Contour | Ballade |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1982 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1335 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 67 HP |
| Torque | 220 Nm | 109 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1314 kg | 785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4150 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2330 mm |
