1998 Ford Contour vs. 1976 Holden Statesman

To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 22 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Holden Statesman. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Holden Statesman would be higher. At 5,042 cc (8 cylinders), 1976 Holden Statesman is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1976 Holden Statesman (213 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1976 Holden Statesman should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1976 Holden Statesman weights approximately 134 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1976 Holden Statesman 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 1976 Holden Statesman. 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, 1976 Holden Statesman (400 Nm @ 3100 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 1976 Holden Statesman will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 1976 Holden Statesman 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. 1976 Holden Statesman will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

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