2004 Chrysler 300 vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2004 Chrysler 300 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,736 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler 300 (190 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 493 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 2004 Chrysler 300 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 2004 Chrysler 300. 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, 2004 Chrysler 300 (258 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2004 Chrysler 300 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. 2004 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler 300 | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 300 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2736 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 258 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1735 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2710 mm |
