2006 Chrysler 300 vs. 1996 Ford Contour
To start off, 2006 Chrysler 300 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Contour would be higher. At 5,654 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler 300 (335 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 206 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 668 kg more than 1996 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 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 2006 Chrysler 300. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 2006 Chrysler 300 (529 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 349 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler 300 | 1996 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 300 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5654 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 335 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 529 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 99.6 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90.9 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1910 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3060 mm | 2710 mm |
