1997 Ford Contour vs. 1985 Ford Mustang
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1985 Ford Mustang. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1985 Ford Mustang 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 25 more horse power than 1985 Ford Mustang. (175 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1985 Ford Mustang. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 210 kg more than 1985 Ford Mustang. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1985 Ford Mustang 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 1985 Ford Mustang. 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, 1985 Ford Mustang (285 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 1985 Ford Mustang will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Contour | 1985 Ford Mustang | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Contour | Mustang |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1985 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2301 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 175 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 231 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4560 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2500 mm |
