1957 BMW 600 vs. 2012 Ford Explorer

To start off, 2012 Ford Explorer is newer by 55 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1957 BMW 600. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1957 BMW 600 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 270 more horse power than 1957 BMW 600. (20 HP @ 4500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1957 BMW 600. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1517 kg more than 1957 BMW 600. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1957 BMW 600 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 1957 BMW 600. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Ford Explorer, 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, 2012 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 307 more torque (in Nm) than 1957 BMW 600. (38 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2012 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1957 BMW 600. 2012 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1957 BMW 600 has manual transmission. 1957 BMW 600 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1957 BMW 600 2012 Ford Explorer
Make BMW Ford
Model 600 Explorer
Year Released 1957 2012
Body Type Coupe SUV
Engine Position Rear Front
Engine Size 583 cc 3500 cc
Engine Cylinders 2 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 20 HP 290 HP
Engine RPM 4500 RPM 6500 RPM
Torque 38 Nm 345 Nm
Torque RPM 2800 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 550 kg 2067 kg
Vehicle Length 2910 mm 5006 mm
Vehicle Width 1410 mm 2004 mm
Vehicle Height 1380 mm 1788 mm
Wheelbase Size 1710 mm 2860 mm