1973 BMW 3 vs. 2002 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2002 Ford Explorer is newer by 29 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1973 BMW 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1973 BMW 3 would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1973 BMW 3 (203 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1973 BMW 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 680 kg more than 1973 BMW 3.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1973 BMW 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1973 BMW 3. (287 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1973 BMW 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1973 BMW 3 | 2002 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1973 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3153 cc | 3996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 203 HP | 158 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Torque | 287 Nm | 305 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1950 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4640 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1740 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1830 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 45 L |
