2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (125 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (114 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser weights approximately 199 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour.
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, 1997 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. (157 Nm @ 4550 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser. 1997 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser has manual transmission. 2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 Chrysler PT Cruiser | 1997 Ford Contour | |
Make | Chrysler | Ford |
Model | PT Cruiser | Contour |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 114 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 157 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4550 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 77 mm | 84.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 88 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1441 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2620 mm | 2710 mm |