I have a '98 540i and a '99 Contour SVT...let me tell you, the 540i will completely destroy any SVT Contour that is not running NOS or the Vortech. It's just no contest. I rarely race it, but I have an automatic (see sig for pics) and I consistently outrun my friend's '99 Lexus GS400, M3's, supercharged Civic Si's, I took a turbocharged Integra LS with a VTEC head from 70-140 on the freeway. It's fast and he was definitely playing with you
