1998 Ford Contour vs. 1972 Ford Gran Torino
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1972 Ford Gran Torino. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1972 Ford Gran Torino would be higher. At 4,095 cc (6 cylinders), 1972 Ford Gran Torino is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. (95 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1972 Ford Gran Torino. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1972 Ford Gran Torino weights approximately 270 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour.
Because 1972 Ford Gran Torino 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 1972 Ford Gran Torino. 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, 1972 Ford Gran Torino (245 Nm @ 1600 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 1972 Ford Gran Torino will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 1972 Ford Gran Torino | |
| Make | Ford | Ford |
| Model | Contour | Gran Torino |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1972 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 4095 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 95 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 1600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 93.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 99.3 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1681 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 3000 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 87 L |
