2009 Chrysler 300 vs. 1997 Ford Ranger
To start off, 2009 Chrysler 300 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Chrysler 300 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chrysler 300 (242 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ranger. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler 300 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler 300 weights approximately 420 kg more than 1997 Ford Ranger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Ford Ranger 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 1997 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Chrysler 300, 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 Chrysler 300 (340 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 142 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ranger. (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Chrysler 300 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chrysler 300 | 1997 Ford Ranger | |
| Make | Chrysler | Ford |
| Model | 300 | Ranger |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 2507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 242 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 340 Nm | 198 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1815 kg | 1395 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5010 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1890 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1650 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3060 mm | 2840 mm |
