2008 BMW X3 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 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 52 more horse power than 2008 BMW X3. (148 HP @ 6200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Ford Contour should accelerate faster than 2008 BMW X3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 265 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour.
Because 2008 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1997 Ford Contour (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 BMW X3. (201 Nm @ 3750 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Contour will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 BMW X3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | X3 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1995 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 201 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1655 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4570 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 55 L |
