1974 BMW 3 vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1974 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1974 BMW 3 would be higher. At 2,986 cc (6 cylinders), 1974 BMW 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1974 BMW 3 (200 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1974 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1974 BMW 3 weights approximately 191 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.
Because 1974 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 1974 BMW 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1974 BMW 3 (270 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 90 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1974 BMW 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1974 BMW 3 | 1998 Ford Contour | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 3 | Contour |
Year Released | 1974 | 1998 |
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 | 200 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 270 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1433 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4720 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2710 mm |