1997 Ford Contour vs. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 15 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 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (125 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (104 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 55 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour.
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 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle. (175 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Volkswagen Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 2012 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Contour | Beetle |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1200 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 125 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1297 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4278 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1808 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1486 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2537 mm |