1997 Ford Contour vs. 2006 BMW 325
To start off, 2006 BMW 325 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2006 BMW 325. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2006 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 BMW 325 weights approximately 260 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour.
Because 2006 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 BMW 325 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2006 BMW 325 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. 2006 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 2006 BMW 325 | |
Make | Ford | BMW |
Model | Contour | 325 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2492 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 200 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 231 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1650 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4480 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1750 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1440 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 63 L |