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 2,493 cc, 2008 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW 325 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW 325 weights approximately 218 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 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 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2008 BMW 325 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. 2008 BMW 325 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW 325 | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 325 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2493 cc | 1989 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 135 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 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 | 3 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2710 mm |
