2009 Dodge Challenger vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2009 Dodge Challenger 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 3,518 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Challenger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Challenger (247 HP @ 6400 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (200 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Challenger should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour.
Because 2009 Dodge Challenger 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 Dodge Challenger. 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 Dodge Challenger (250 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 19 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Challenger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2009 Dodge Challenger has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Dodge Challenger will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Challenger | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | Dodge | Ford |
| Model | Challenger | Contour |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3518 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 247 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6400 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 250 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.9:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1930 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
