1997 Ford Contour vs. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Contour would be higher. At 1,994 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (139 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (125 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 183 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (188 Nm @ 4150 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | |
Make | Ford | Chrysler |
Model | Contour | PT Cruiser |
Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1994 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 125 HP | 139 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 188 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4150 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4290 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1710 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1610 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2620 mm |