2009 BMW 535 vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2009 BMW 535 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Contour. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Contour would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW 535 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW 535 (300 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (195 HP @ 6625 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW 535 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour.
Because 2009 BMW 535 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 535. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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 535 (407 Nm @ 1400 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (224 Nm @ 5625 RPM). This means 2009 BMW 535 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 BMW 535 | 1998 Ford Contour | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 535 | Contour |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2544 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 195 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6625 RPM |
| Torque | 407 Nm | 224 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1400 RPM | 5625 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 84 mm | 82.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 89.6 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 54 L |
