2003 BMW 320 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2003 BMW 320 is newer by 6 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 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2003 BMW 320. (142 HP @ 6100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2003 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Contour weights approximately 80 kg more than 2003 BMW 320. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 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 2003 BMW 320. 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, 1997 Ford Contour (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 31 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 BMW 320. (200 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 BMW 320.
Compare all specifications:
2003 BMW 320 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 320 | Contour |
Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2544 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 142 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 6100 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 200 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5625 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |