1998 Ford Contour vs. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (148 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 13 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Volkswagen Beetle weights approximately 24 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour. 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, 1999 Volkswagen Beetle (220 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 40 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Volkswagen Beetle will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Contour | 1999 Volkswagen Beetle | |
Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
Model | Contour | Beetle |
Year Released | 1998 | 1999 |
Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1781 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 135 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2000 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 | 1266 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4090 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1500 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2510 mm |