2006 BMW 550 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2006 BMW 550 is newer by 9 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 4,801 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 BMW 550 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 BMW 550 (360 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 225 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 BMW 550 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour.
Because 2006 BMW 550 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 2006 BMW 550. 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, 2006 BMW 550 (488 Nm @ 3400 RPM) has 308 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 BMW 550 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
2006 BMW 550 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 550 | Contour |
Year Released | 2006 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4801 cc | 1987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 360 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 6300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 488 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4860 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |