2007 BMW X3 vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2007 BMW X3 is newer by 9 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 BMW X3 (149 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (128 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X3 weights approximately 498 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (330 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 BMW X3 | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | X3 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | 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 | 149 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 84.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1680 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |
