1983 BMW 525 vs. 2011 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2011 Ford Explorer is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1983 BMW 525. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1983 BMW 525 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford Explorer (290 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 167 more horse power than 1983 BMW 525. (123 HP @ 4250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1983 BMW 525.
Because 1983 BMW 525 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 1983 BMW 525. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2011 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 104 more torque (in Nm) than 1983 BMW 525. (241 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1983 BMW 525. 2011 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1983 BMW 525 has manual transmission. 1983 BMW 525 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1983 BMW 525 | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | BMW | Ford |
| Model | 525 | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1983 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2693 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4630 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 70 L |
