1978 BMW 725 vs. 2013 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2013 Ford Explorer is newer by 35 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW 725. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW 725 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Ford Explorer (286 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 138 more horse power than 1978 BMW 725. (148 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1978 BMW 725.
Because 1978 BMW 725 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 1978 BMW 725. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Ford Explorer (346 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW 725. (215 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW 725.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW 725 | 2013 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 725 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2495 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 346 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86.1 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 71.6 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.6:1 | 10.8: 1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4870 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 2291 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2860 mm |
