1994 Ford Contour vs. 1974 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1994 Ford Contour is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 Volkswagen Beetle would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Ford Contour (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 86 more horse power than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (43 HP @ 4100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1994 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Ford Contour weights approximately 422 kg more than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1994 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle. (86 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 1994 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1974 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1994 Ford Contour | 1974 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Contour | Beetle |
Year Released | 1994 | 1974 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1285 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 43 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 86 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 820 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4070 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1560 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2410 mm |