1995 BMW M3 vs. 1996 Ford Contour
To start off, 1996 Ford Contour is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,988 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW M3 (282 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW M3 weights approximately 223 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 1995 BMW M3 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 1995 BMW M3. 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, 1995 BMW M3 (320 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1995 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1995 BMW M3 | 1996 Ford Contour | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | M3 | Contour |
Year Released | 1995 | 1996 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2988 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 282 HP | 129 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 320 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 84.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 85.8 mm | 88 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |