1994 Ford Contour vs. 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Ford Contour would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1994 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (150 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1994 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle should accelerate faster than 1994 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Ford Contour weights approximately 11 kg more than 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1994 Ford Contour | 2008 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Contour | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1994 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1231 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4380 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |
