2008 BMW X3 vs. 1994 Ford Contour
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (189 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1994 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1994 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 498 kg more than 1994 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW X3 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 X3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1994 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 X3 (245 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1994 Ford Contour | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | X3 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1994 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2494 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 189 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 245 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.1 mm | 84.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 75 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1740 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5050 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |
