1998 BMW 316 vs. 2000 Ford Contour
To start off, 2000 Ford Contour is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 316. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 316 would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Ford Contour (201 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 95 more horse power than 1998 BMW 316. (106 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2000 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 316. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Ford Contour weights approximately 168 kg more than 1998 BMW 316. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 BMW 316 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 1998 BMW 316. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 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, 2000 Ford Contour (230 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 316. (165 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2000 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 316.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 316 | 2000 Ford Contour | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 316 | Contour |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2000 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1895 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 201 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 230 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.5 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1250 kg | 1418 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 54 L |
