2009 Chevrolet Express vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet Express is newer by 11 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 4,300 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet Express is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) has 2 more horse power than 2009 Chevrolet Express. (193 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2009 Chevrolet Express. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet Express weights approximately 974 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour.
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, 1998 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 (260 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet Express will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2009 Chevrolet Express 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. 2009 Chevrolet Express will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet Express | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Ford |
| Model | Express | Contour |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4300 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 193 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6625 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2385 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 2080 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3440 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 117 L | 54 L |
