2006 Dodge Caravan vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2006 Dodge Caravan is newer by 8 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 3,309 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Dodge Caravan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Dodge Caravan (180 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caravan should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Dodge Caravan weights approximately 508 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.
Because 2006 Dodge Caravan is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Dodge Caravan will offer significantly more control. 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 Dodge Caravan (285 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 105 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Dodge Caravan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Dodge Caravan | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Caravan | Contour |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3309 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 180 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5100 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2000 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3040 mm | 2710 mm |
