1999 BMW M5 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 1999 BMW M5 is newer by 2 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 4,900 cc (8 cylinders), 1999 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 BMW M5 (401 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 BMW M5 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 BMW M5 weights approximately 368 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 1999 BMW M5 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 1999 BMW M5. 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, 1999 BMW M5 (499 Nm) has 319 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm). This means 1999 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
1999 BMW M5 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | M5 | Contour |
Year Released | 1999 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4900 cc | 1987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 401 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 499 Nm | 180 Nm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1610 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |