1979 BMW 320 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 18 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1979 BMW 320. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1979 BMW 320 would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1979 BMW 320 (641 HP @ 9000 RPM) has 441 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (200 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1979 BMW 320 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 550 kg more than 1979 BMW 320.
Because 1979 BMW 320 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 1979 BMW 320. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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.
Compare all specifications:
| 1979 BMW 320 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 320 | Contour |
| Year Released | 1979 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1991 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 641 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 9000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 840 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4520 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2710 mm |
