1998 Ford Contour vs. 2013 Volkswagen Beetle
To start off, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle is newer by 15 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 57 more horse power than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2013 Volkswagen Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 91 kg more than 2013 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, 2013 Volkswagen Beetle (320 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 96 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Volkswagen Beetle | |
| Make | Ford | Volkswagen |
| Model | Contour | Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 195 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 224 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 95 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 16.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1320 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1486 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2537 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 55 L |
