2009 BMW 330 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2009 BMW 330 is newer by 12 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 2,991 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 330 (228 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (168 HP @ 6250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 330 weights approximately 286 kg more than 1997 Ford Contour. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 BMW 330 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 2009 BMW 330. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2009 BMW 330 (500 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (220 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour. 1997 Ford Contour has automatic transmission and 2009 BMW 330 has manual transmission. 2009 BMW 330 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1997 Ford Contour will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 330 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 330 | Contour |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2991 cc | 2544 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 228 HP | 168 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6250 RPM |
Torque | 500 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4250 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1600 kg | 1314 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |