1997 Ford Contour vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 2 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 1,987 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (100 HP @ 5600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 37 kg more than 1999 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, 1997 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle. (150 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Contour | Beetle |
Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1987 cc | 1594 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 100 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 150 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3800 RPM |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1205 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2520 mm |