2009 Dodge Dakota vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2009 Dodge Dakota 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 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Dakota (207 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour.
Because 2009 Dodge Dakota 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 Dakota. 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 Dakota (236 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 1997 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 2009 Dodge Dakota has manual transmission. 2009 Dodge Dakota 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 Dodge Dakota | 1997 Ford Contour | |
Make | Dodge | Ford |
Model | Dakota | Contour |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3701 cc | 2544 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 207 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 236 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2710 mm |