1998 Ford Contour vs. 2008 BMW 320
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (168 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 209 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour.
Because 2008 BMW 320 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 2008 BMW 320. 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, 1998 Ford Contour (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW 320. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW 320. 2008 BMW 320 has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 BMW 320 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Contour | 2008 BMW 320 | |
Make | Ford | BMW |
Model | Contour | 320 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2008 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2171 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 195 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 210 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 82.4 mm | 80 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 72 mm |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 222 km/hour |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1411 kg | 1620 kg |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 63 L |