Dodge Stratus vs Ford Contour
The Dodge Stratus is more fuel-efficient at 26 MPG combined, against 25 MPG for the Ford Contour. At EPA assumptions that is about $100 less in fuel per year. (Comparison uses each model's most efficient version.)
Side by side
| Dodge Stratus | Ford Contour | |
|---|---|---|
| Complaints (NHTSA) | 776 | 858 |
| Most reported problem | Engine | Electrical system |
| Crashes and fires | 39 and 40 | 42 and 31 |
| Typical mileage at complaint | 90,000 miles | 90,000 miles |
| Recalls | 7 | 8 |
| Fuel economy, combined | 26 MPG | 25 MPG |
| City and highway | 22 and 33 | 21 and 31 |
| Yearly fuel cost (EPA) | $2,600 | $2,700 |
What the numbers say
NHTSA has 776 complaints for the Dodge Stratus and 858 for the Ford Contour. Complaint counts depend heavily on how many of each vehicle were sold, so a higher count does not by itself mean a less reliable car.
Safety recalls on file: 7 for the Dodge Stratus, 8 for the Ford Contour.