2007 BMW 325 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2007 BMW 325 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 80 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW 325 weights approximately 258 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 325 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 325. 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, 2007 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 70 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 2007 BMW 325 has automatic transmission and 1997 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1997 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2007 BMW 325 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 325 | Contour |
Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 250 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1500 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1420 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |