2009 BMW X3 vs. 1998 Ford Contour
To start off, 2009 BMW X3 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 2,993 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 BMW X3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 BMW X3 (282 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1998 Ford Contour. (135 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 should accelerate faster than 1998 Ford Contour.
Because 2009 BMW X3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Ford Contour. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 BMW X3 will offer significantly more control. 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 X3 (580 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 400 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Ford Contour. (180 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 BMW X3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Ford Contour. 2009 BMW X3 has automatic transmission and 1998 Ford Contour has manual transmission. 1998 Ford Contour will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 BMW X3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2009 BMW X3 | 1998 Ford Contour | |
Make | BMW | Ford |
Model | X3 | Contour |
Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2993 cc | 1989 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 282 HP | 135 HP |
Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 580 Nm | 180 Nm |
Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4580 mm | 4680 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1860 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1680 mm | 1400 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2710 mm |