2009 Chevrolet Express vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Express is newer by 12 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 5,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet Express (319 HP @ 4600 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet Express should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 1071 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 2009 Chevrolet Express 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 2009 Chevrolet Express. 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, 2009 Chevrolet Express (498 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 278 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chevrolet Express | 1997 Ford Contour | |
Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
Model | Express | Contour |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Van | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 5999 cc | 2544 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 319 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 498 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4400 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 12 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2385 kg | 1314 kg |
Vehicle Length | 6210 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 2090 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3940 mm | 2710 mm |