2005 Dodge Caravan vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2005 Dodge Caravan is newer by 7 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 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2005 Dodge Caravan. (145 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2005 Dodge Caravan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 339 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour.
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, 2005 Dodge Caravan (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2005 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Dodge Caravan | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | Contour |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6625 RPM |
| Torque | 226 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 54 L |
