1998 Ford Contour vs. 2011 BMW 125
To start off, 2011 BMW 125 is newer by 13 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 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 125 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 125 (215 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 125 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 125 weights approximately 174 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 BMW 125 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 2011 BMW 125. 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, 2011 BMW 125 (271 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 47 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 125 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2011 BMW 125 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. 2011 BMW 125 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Ford Contour | 2011 BMW 125 | |
Make | Ford | BMW |
Model | Contour | 125 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2544 cc | 2996 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 195 HP | 215 HP |
Engine RPM | 6625 RPM | 6100 RPM |
Torque | 224 Nm | 271 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5625 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Top Speed | 225 km/hour | 238 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 | 1585 kg |
Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2670 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 53 L |