1997 Ford Contour vs. 2010 BMW 325
To start off, 2010 BMW 325 is newer by 13 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 BMW 325 (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 65 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (125 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 BMW 325 weights approximately 238 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2010 BMW 325 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 2010 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2010 BMW 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Ford Contour | 2010 BMW 325 | |
Make | Ford | BMW |
Model | Contour | 325 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2010 |
Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1989 cc | 2494 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 125 HP | 190 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 245 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 84 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 75 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1242 kg | 1480 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4680 mm | 4270 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1410 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |