2006 Chevrolet Impala vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Impala is newer by 9 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Impala is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 200 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar.
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, 2006 Chevrolet Impala (298 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Impala will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2006 Chevrolet Impala 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. 2006 Chevrolet Impala will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Impala | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Impala | Contour |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 55 L |
