2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is newer by 10 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 2,429 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (150 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 169 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.
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, 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser (214 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | PT Cruiser | Contour |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2429 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 214 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 84.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 101 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |
