2009 BMW 530 vs. 1997 Ford Contour
To start off, 2009 BMW 530 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 530 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 530 (215 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1997 Ford Contour. (200 HP @ 6700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 530 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Contour. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 BMW 530 weights approximately 370 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 530 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 530. 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 530 (500 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Contour. (231 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 530 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW 530 | 1997 Ford Contour | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | 530 | Contour |
Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
Body Type | Station Wagon | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 2544 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 215 HP | 200 HP |
Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6700 RPM |
Torque | 500 Nm | 231 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5625 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 17.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Diesel | 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 | 1760 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1380 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |