1997 Ford Contour vs. 2010 Dodge Nitro
To start off, 2010 Dodge Nitro is newer by 13 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Dodge Nitro is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Dodge Nitro (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Dodge Nitro should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour.
Because 2010 Dodge Nitro 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 2010 Dodge Nitro. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2010 Dodge Nitro (359 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2010 Dodge Nitro will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2010 Dodge Nitro 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. 2010 Dodge Nitro will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 2010 Dodge Nitro | |
Make | Ford | Dodge |
Model | Contour | Nitro |
Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 4000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 260 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 359 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 4200 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4544 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1857 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1775 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2764 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 74 L |