1998 Ford Contour vs. 1979 Ford Taunus
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 Ford Taunus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 Ford Taunus would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP) has 138 more horse power than 1979 Ford Taunus. (57 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1979 Ford Taunus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 391 kg more than 1979 Ford Taunus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1979 Ford Taunus 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 1979 Ford Taunus. 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, 1998 Ford Contour (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 132 more torque (in Nm) than 1979 Ford Taunus. (92 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1979 Ford Taunus.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Contour | 1979 Ford Taunus | |
Make | Ford | Ford |
Model | Contour | Taunus |
Year Released | 1998 | 1979 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1293 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 195 HP | 57 HP |
Torque | 224 Nm | 92 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 79 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 66 mm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1020 kg |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1330 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2580 mm |