1992 BMW 740 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 1997 Ford Contour is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1992 BMW 740. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1992 BMW 740 would be higher. At 3,982 cc (8 cylinders), 1992 BMW 740 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1992 BMW 740 (282 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1992 BMW 740 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1992 BMW 740 weights approximately 588 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1992 BMW 740 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 740. 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. Let's talk about torque, 1992 BMW 740 (401 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1992 BMW 740 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 1992 BMW 740 has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1992 BMW 740 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1992 BMW 740 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 740 | Contour |
| Year Released | 1992 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3982 cc | 1987 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 282 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 401 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1830 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5030 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2950 mm | 2710 mm |
