1997 BMW S3 vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 1998 Ford Contour is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 BMW S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 BMW S3 would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 BMW S3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 BMW S3 (260 HP @ 4800 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 BMW S3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 43 kg more than 1997 BMW S3.
Because 1997 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 1997 BMW S3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1997 BMW S3 (330 Nm) has 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm). This means 1997 BMW S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 BMW S3 | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | S3 | Contour |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6625 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 258 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1368 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
