2000 BMW Z3 vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2000 BMW Z3 is newer by 2 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 2,171 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z3 (167 HP @ 6100 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 BMW Z3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 BMW Z3 weights approximately 144 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 2000 BMW Z3 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 2000 BMW Z3. 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, 2000 BMW Z3 (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2000 BMW Z3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
2000 BMW Z3 | 1998 Ford Contour | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | Z3 | Contour |
Year Released | 2000 | 1998 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2171 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 167 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 210 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 84.9 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 72 mm | 88 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1386 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4060 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2710 mm |