2008 BMW X3 vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2008 BMW X3 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW X3 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW X3 weights approximately 354 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 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, 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 X3 (480 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 256 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2008 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2008 BMW X3 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 X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW X3 | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | X3 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6625 RPM |
| Torque | 480 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 210 km/hour | 225 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1765 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 67 L | 54 L |
