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 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Contour (195 HP @ 6625 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2007 BMW X3. (190 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2007 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 BMW X3 weights approximately 354 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour.
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 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2007 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2007 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 2494 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 190 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6625 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 196 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 54 L |
