2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 10 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 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (230 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (200 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 500 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.
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, 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser (332 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Contour |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 230 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 332 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1890 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4300 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
