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 2,996 cc, 2009 BMW 330 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 330 (254 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (200 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 330 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour.
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 (315 Nm) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm). This means 2009 BMW 330 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 330 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 330 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2996 cc | 2544 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 254 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4530 mm | 4680 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1430 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2770 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 55 L |
