2006 Chrysler 300 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2006 Chrysler 300 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 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chrysler 300 (246 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 46 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (200 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 315 kg more than 1997 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, 1997 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 (340 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2006 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2006 Chrysler 300 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 Chrysler 300 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chrysler 300 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 300 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 246 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1705 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5020 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3060 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
