1998 Ford Contour vs. 2001 Smart ForFour
To start off, 2001 Smart ForFour is newer by 3 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 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2001 Smart ForFour. (94 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2001 Smart ForFour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 441 kg more than 2001 Smart ForFour. 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, 1998 Ford Contour (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Smart ForFour. (125 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Smart ForFour. 2001 Smart ForFour 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. 2001 Smart ForFour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Contour | 2001 Smart ForFour | |
| Make | Ford | Smart |
| Model | Contour | ForFour |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 1332 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 94 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 125 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 180 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 970 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 47 L |
