2009 BMW 523 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2009 BMW 523 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 2,497 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 523 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 523 (175 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 523 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 523 weights approximately 283 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 523 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 523. 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 523 (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 523 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 523 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 523 | Contour |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2497 cc | 1987 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 175 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 230 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1525 kg | 1242 kg |
Vehicle Width | 1470 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |