1992 BMW 520 vs. 1996 Ford Contour
To start off, 1996 Ford Contour is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 520. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 520 would be higher. At 1,990 cc (6 cylinders), 1992 BMW 520 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 520 (148 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 520 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 520 weights approximately 246 kg more than 1996 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 BMW 520 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 1992 BMW 520. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1992 BMW 520 (190 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 520 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1992 BMW 520 | 1996 Ford Contour | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 520 | Contour |
Year Released | 1992 | 1996 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1990 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 190 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80.1 mm | 84.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 66 mm | 88 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1488 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |