1998 Dodge Ram vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 1998 Dodge Ram is newer by 1 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 5,899 cc (8 cylinders), 1998 Dodge Ram is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Dodge Ram (242 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Dodge Ram weights approximately 888 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.
Because 1998 Dodge Ram is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Dodge Ram will offer significantly more control. 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 Dodge Ram (453 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 273 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Dodge Ram will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Dodge Ram | 1997 Ford Contour | |
Make | Dodge | Ford |
Model | Ram | Contour |
Year Released | 1998 | 1997 |
Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5899 cc | 1987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 242 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 453 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 2130 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2030 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 2030 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2790 mm | 2710 mm |