2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 2,424 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (180 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 165 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.
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, 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser (285 Nm) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm). This means 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Contour |
| Year Released | 2004 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2424 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 84.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 88 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1407 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
