1978 BMW M1 vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2003 Ford Explorer is newer by 25 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 BMW M1 would be higher. At 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1978 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 63 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1978 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 639 kg more than 1978 BMW M1.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1978 BMW M1. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 BMW M1. (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 BMW M1. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1978 BMW M1 has manual transmission. 1978 BMW M1 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1978 BMW M1 | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | M1 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1978 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 4014 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 3490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 85 L |
