2008 BMW 320 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2008 BMW 320 is newer by 11 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 2,544 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Contour is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Ford Contour (200 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2008 BMW 320. (161 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 320. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 320 weights approximately 190 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour.
Because 2008 BMW 320 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 2008 BMW 320. 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, 2008 BMW 320 (340 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 109 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 320 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 320 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 320 | Contour |
Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1993 cc | 2544 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 161 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 340 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5625 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1580 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 55 L |