1996 Ford Contour vs. 2012 BMW 118
To start off, 2012 BMW 118 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Contour would be higher. At 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 118 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 118 (143 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 14 more horse power than 1996 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 118 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW 118 weights approximately 253 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 2012 BMW 118 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 2012 BMW 118. 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, 2012 BMW 118 (190 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 BMW 118 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Ford Contour | 2012 BMW 118 | |
Make | Ford | BMW |
Model | Contour | 118 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2012 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 1995 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 129 HP | 143 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1495 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4360 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1748 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1411 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2660 mm |