1998 Ford Contour vs. 1974 Holden Torana

To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Holden Torana. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Holden Torana would be higher. At 4,143 cc (8 cylinders), 1974 Holden Torana is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1974 Holden Torana. (182 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1974 Holden Torana. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 201 kg more than 1974 Holden Torana. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1974 Holden Torana 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 1974 Holden Torana. 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, 1974 Holden Torana (356 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 1974 Holden Torana will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 1974 Holden Torana 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. 1974 Holden Torana will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Ford Contour 1974 Holden Torana
Make Ford Holden
Model Contour Torana
Year Released 1998 1974
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2544 cc 4143 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 195 HP 182 HP
Engine RPM 6625 RPM 4400 RPM
Torque 224 Nm 356 Nm
Torque RPM 5625 RPM 2400 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Vehicle Weight 1411 kg 1210 kg
Vehicle Height 1390 mm 1340 mm
Wheelbase Size 2730 mm 2590 mm