1995 BMW S3 vs. 1999 Ford Contour
To start off, 1999 Ford Contour is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 BMW S3 would be higher. At 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 BMW S3 (338 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 210 more horse power than 1999 Ford Contour. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1999 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 BMW S3 weights approximately 483 kg more than 1999 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 BMW S3 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 S3. 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, 1995 BMW S3 (260 Nm) has 85 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Ford Contour. (175 Nm). This means 1995 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Ford Contour. 1999 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 1995 BMW S3 has manual transmission. 1995 BMW S3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1995 BMW S3 | 1999 Ford Contour | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | S3 | Contour |
Year Released | 1995 | 1999 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 338 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 260 Nm | 175 Nm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1725 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1720 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |