1968 BMW 1600 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1968 BMW 1600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1968 BMW 1600 would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 1968 BMW 1600. (100 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1968 BMW 1600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 400 kg more than 1968 BMW 1600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1997 Ford Contour (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1968 BMW 1600. (160 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1968 BMW 1600.
Compare all specifications:
| 1968 BMW 1600 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 1600 | Contour |
| Year Released | 1968 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1990 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 100 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 160 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 990 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4240 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1600 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 46 L | 55 L |
