2007 BMW 318 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2007 BMW 318 is newer by 10 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 BMW 318 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 318 (128 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (125 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 318 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 318 weights approximately 193 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 2007 BMW 318 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 2007 BMW 318. 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, both vehicles can yield 180 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 1997 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 2007 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 2007 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2007 BMW 318 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 318 | Contour |
Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1995 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 128 HP | 125 HP |
Engine RPM | 5750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 180 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84.8 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 88 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1435 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |