2008 Chrysler 300 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2008 Chrysler 300 is newer by 11 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 2,736 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler 300 (190 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 504 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 2008 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 2008 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, 2008 Chrysler 300 (257 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 37 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Chrysler 300 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
Make | Chrysler | Ford |
Model | 300 | Contour |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2736 cc | 2544 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 190 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 257 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1818 kg | 1314 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 |