1998 Ford Contour vs. 1953 Studebaker Commander
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 45 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1953 Studebaker Commander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1953 Studebaker Commander would be higher. At 3,809 cc (8 cylinders), 1953 Studebaker Commander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1953 Studebaker Commander. (120 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1953 Studebaker Commander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1953 Studebaker Commander weights approximately 450 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour.
Because 1953 Studebaker Commander 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 1953 Studebaker Commander. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1953 Studebaker Commander (258 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1953 Studebaker Commander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 1953 Studebaker Commander has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1953 Studebaker Commander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Contour | 1953 Studebaker Commander | |
Make | Ford | Studebaker |
Model | Contour | Commander |
Year Released | 1998 | 1953 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 3809 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 120 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 258 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1692 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 5140 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 3070 mm |