2008 BMW 325 vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2008 BMW 325 is newer by 10 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 6 more horse power than 2008 BMW 325. (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW 325. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 229 kg more than 1998 Ford Contour.
Because 2008 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 2008 BMW 325. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 325 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 21 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
2008 BMW 325 | 1998 Ford Contour | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 325 | Contour |
Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2493 cc | 2544 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Horse Power | 189 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 | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Top Speed | 234 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1640 kg | 1411 kg |
Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1390 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 63 L | 54 L |