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 2,926 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 BMW Z3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 BMW Z3 (227 HP @ 5900 RPM) has 32 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 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. 1998 Ford Contour weights approximately 51 kg more than 2000 BMW Z3.
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 (300 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 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 | 2926 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 227 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5900 RPM | 6625 RPM |
| Torque | 300 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1360 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1300 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 51 L | 54 L |
