1998 Ford Contour vs. 1999 MCC Smart
To start off, 1999 MCC Smart is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Contour would be higher. At 1,989 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 1999 MCC Smart. (53 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1999 MCC Smart. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 542 kg more than 1999 MCC Smart. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1999 MCC Smart is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1999 MCC Smart. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 1998 Ford Contour (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 MCC Smart. (80 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 MCC Smart. 1999 MCC Smart has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 MCC Smart will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 1999 MCC Smart | |
| Make | Ford | MCC |
| Model | Contour | Smart |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1989 cc | 599 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 135 HP | 53 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 80 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 700 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 3230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1610 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2280 mm |
