1982 BMW 325 vs. 1999 Ford Contour
To start off, 1999 Ford Contour is newer by 17 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 BMW 325. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 BMW 325 would be higher. At 2,693 cc (6 cylinders), 1982 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Ford Contour (128 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1982 BMW 325. (120 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1982 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Ford Contour weights approximately 102 kg more than 1982 BMW 325. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1982 BMW 325 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 1982 BMW 325. 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, 1982 BMW 325 (230 Nm @ 3250 RPM) has 55 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Contour. (175 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1982 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 BMW 325 | 1999 Ford Contour | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 325 | Contour |
| Year Released | 1982 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4330 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2710 mm |
