1971 BMW 3 vs. 1999 Ford Contour
To start off, 1999 Ford Contour is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1971 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1971 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1971 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1971 BMW 3 (170 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 1999 Ford Contour. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1971 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1971 BMW 3 weights approximately 138 kg more than 1999 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1971 BMW 3 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 1971 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 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, 1971 BMW 3 (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Contour. (175 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1971 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Contour. 1999 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 1971 BMW 3 has manual transmission. 1971 BMW 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1971 BMW 3 | 1999 Ford Contour | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 3 | Contour |
Year Released | 1971 | 1999 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2986 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 170 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 254 Nm | 175 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.1:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |