2008 BMW Z4 vs. 1993 Ford Contour
To start off, 2008 BMW Z4 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1993 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1993 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 BMW Z4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 BMW Z4 (261 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 1993 Ford Contour. (129 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 BMW Z4 should accelerate faster than 1993 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 BMW Z4 weights approximately 153 kg more than 1993 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 BMW Z4 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 Z4. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1993 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 Z4 (316 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 136 more torque (in Nm) than 1993 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2008 BMW Z4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1993 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 BMW Z4 | 1993 Ford Contour | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | Z4 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1993 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 261 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 316 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85 mm | 84.8 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 88 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1242 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4100 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1270 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2710 mm |
