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I want to express a comparison between two concepts but emphasize their difference rather than their similarities.
Am I wrong in assuming that "analogue" connotes similarity?
Sample sentence: "In terms of walkability, Boston is a good [analogue] to sprawling Western cities like Phoenix or Salt Lake City."
As suggested by Hot Licks, contrast may be the word you are looking for. At least it's a good bet.
Dictionary.com:
contrast: a striking exhibition of unlikeness
Your example:
"In terms of walkability, Boston is a good contrast to sprawling Western cities like Phoenix or Salt Lake City."
Another good possibility, even more of an antonym, is antipode.
Dictionary.com:
antipode: a direct or exact opposite
Your example:
"In terms of walkability, Boston is an antipode to sprawling Western cities like Phoenix or Salt Lake City."
Perhaps, it is a counterexample - an example which is opposite to the one(s) it is being compared to, in the specific context.
"In terms of walkability, Boston is a good counterexample to sprawling Western cities like Phoenix or Salt Lake City."
ODO:
counterexample NOUN
An example that opposes or contradicts an idea or theory:
‘the media presented him as a counterexample to the common stereotypes’‘As a counterexample, another firm in a similar situation abandoned their original facility consolidation plan.’
No, you are not wrong. For the antonym, try antitype:
An opposite or contrasting type (American Heritage)
An opposite type (Collins)
Both dictionaries number this sense 2, following one involving linkages between Old and New Testaments; but the word is perfectly serviceable for this second sense.
